Purpose
This course enables the individual to operate a chainsaw effectively and safely for the purposes of limbing and firewood cutting as would be required in the workplace.
NB: This is not an advanced course and does not cover tree felling as would be required in the logging industry.
The trainee will also be able to demonstrate the appropriate responsibilities of a chainsaw operator with emphasis on safe operation and accident prevention.
This course is designed specifically for use of chainsaws in the workplace. A high level of safe decision-making is promoted. Operating techniques that minimise negative environmental impact are encouraged.
The aim of this course is to produce an operator that can demonstrate the knowledge, skills and attributes for all essential areas of the units of competency covered under the Department of Labour’s “best practice” guidelines for basic operation of a chainsaw in the workplace.
One or Two day Course Options
The one day course is designed for delivery where a company has a relevant health and safety program active in the field where chainsaws are to be used, and where this can be documented and verified utilising a form provided by VHNZ. This short course can also be delivered as a refresher course for those already holding the unit standards. When attending refresher training and where relevant unit standards are already held, an attendee does not have to complete the full written segment of the course.
The two day course is designed for delivery where new staff requires full initiation into the safe use of a chainsaw from both a health and safety and practical experience viewpoint. This is the preferred option for those companies seeking a highlighted health and safety chainsaw operation element to meet “best practice” requirements, or where it is felt more practical experience time would be beneficial because chainsaw work may involve a wider variety of cutting scenarios; i.e. hanging limbs, uneven terrain, variable environmental conditions.
This two day option allows more time to adapt / customise course delivery content to meet specialised workplace requirements. This is done in conjunction with prior consultation.
Skills Learned
In line with “best practice” guidelines the course encompasses both theory and practical lessons covering the following; legal requirements surrounding chainsaw use, use of PPE, basic chainsaw maintenance, Chain sharpening and bar dressing, pre-start checks, correct starting and operating techniques.
Utilising a mix of theory and practical delivery, subjects covered are; factors that affect the above content. This course does not cover use of a chainsaw on hill country.
NZQA Unit Standards
One Day Programme
6917 Demonstrate basic chainsaw operation
Two Day Programme
6916 Demonstrate knowledge of the rules relating to chainsaw use
6917 Demonstrate basic chainsaw operation Participants will be kept focused and interested by active involvement in practical sessions interspersed during the course.
Learning Style and Assessment Processes
The course, by necessity, involves some theory learning and trainees will have to complete a written assessment.
The first half of the course works through the knowledge required to operate a chainsaw in the workplace. Stripping, naming components, maintaining a chainsaw, and safe starting of a chainsaw.
The second half of the course will require a shift from the theory / workshop environment to the worksite where actual chainsaw use is covered and experience is gained.
Course Assessment
Course participants will receive instruction and evaluation during the course to ensure a safe level of competency has been achieved prior to moving on to the “work experience” stage.
A post-course report will raise concerns on any individual requiring special on-going tuition / guidance to reach a safe minimal operating level.
In-house assisted theory assessments are completed under direct supervision of VHNZ literacy assistance personnel. Assessments are marked during the course.less
