Chainsaw Training Module B in accordance with DGUV Information 214-059

Module B of the DGUV for working with a chainsaw builds on the fundamentals of Module A and is aimed at persons who wish to work in tree felling and in the processing of lying timber. It focuses on advanced techniques and safe handling in more complex activities. This module is essential for work in forestry or on construction sites involving tree felling. It qualifies participants to carry out tree felling independently in accordance with the DGUV requirements.

Theory (8 teaching units)

• Legal and safety-related fundamentals

  • Supplementary regulations and rules (e.g. DGUV Regulation 1 and 38, Industrial Safety Ordinance)

  • Risk assessment and work preparation for felling operations

  • Requirements for personal protective equipment (PPE)

• Tree science and assessment

  • Fundamentals of assessing tree species and condition (health, lean, cracks, rot)

  • Assessment of hazards caused by external influences (wind, weather, neighbouring trees)

• Force and load conditions during felling

  • Analysis of tension and compression in the trunk

  • Influence of trunk lean on the felling process

Practice (16 teaching units)

• Work preparation

  • Defining the felling area and escape routes

  • Maintaining safety distances (e.g. from persons, buildings, vehicles)

  • Setting up and clearing the work area

• Felling techniques

  • Basic felling cuts (e.g. directional notch, felling cut)

  • Use of the hinge to control the direction of fall

  • Alternative felling methods in difficult conditions (e.g. with a winch or wedges)

• Working with timber under tension

  • Fundamentals of the relief cut and tension cut

  • Handling lying timber that is under compression or tension

• Dealing with difficult situations

  • Felling trees on slopes

  • Working in adverse weather conditions

• Use of auxiliary equipment

  • Use of felling wedges, lifting tools and grip tongs

  • Fundamentals of using winches or other machinery

• Maintenance and care of the chainsaw

  • Deepening the knowledge from Module A (e.g. sharpening the chain, lubrication)