CTSP Chainsaw Use and PPE 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which chainsaw chain feature is specifically designed to reduce kickback severity?
- Low-kickback chain with guard links (Correct answer)
- Full-chisel chain
- Skip-tooth chain
- Standard semi-chisel chain
Correct answer: Low-kickback chain with guard links
Low-kickback chains incorporate guard links or bumper drive links that limit the depth the chain nose can bite into wood, reducing kickback force.
Question 2: When cutting a limb under compression (loaded), the arborist should make the first cut on which side?
- The tension side first
- The compression side first (Correct answer)
- The middle of the limb
- Either side — order doesn't matter
Correct answer: The compression side first
Cutting the compression side first relieves stress and prevents the saw from pinching, then the tension side is cut to drop the limb cleanly.
Question 3: What is the ANSI/ASTM standard that covers chainsaw chaps and leg protection for tree care workers?
- ASTM F1897 (Correct answer)
- ANSI Z87.1
- ANSI Z133
- OSHA 1926.503
Correct answer: ASTM F1897
ASTM F1897 is the standard specification for leg protection (chainsaw-resistant chaps/pants) used in chainsaw operations.
Question 4: Chain brake activation by inertia occurs when:
- The operator releases the throttle
- A sudden rotational force is detected during kickback (Correct answer)
- The chain reaches maximum RPM
- The front hand guard is manually pushed
Correct answer: A sudden rotational force is detected during kickback
Inertia-activated chain brakes trigger automatically when the rapid rotational force of a kickback event is detected, stopping the chain without operator action.
Question 5: The 'kickback zone' on a chainsaw bar is located at the:
- Bottom of the bar near the engine
- Top of the bar near the engine
- Upper quadrant of the bar nose (Correct answer)
- Lower quadrant of the bar nose
Correct answer: Upper quadrant of the bar nose
The upper quadrant of the bar nose is the kickback zone because contact there causes the chain to grab and rapidly rotate the bar upward toward the operator.
Question 6: What minimum hearing protection NRR (Noise Reduction Rating) is generally recommended when operating a chainsaw above 100 dB?
- NRR 10 or higher
- NRR 15 or higher
- NRR 25 or higher (Correct answer)
- NRR 5 or higher
Correct answer: NRR 25 or higher
An NRR of 25 or higher is generally recommended for chainsaw operation since chainsaws typically produce 100–115 dB, requiring substantial attenuation to protect hearing.
Question 7: When refueling a chainsaw in the field, the operator should move at least how far from the refueling site before starting the saw?
- 3 feet
- 10 feet
- 25 feet (Correct answer)
- 50 feet
Correct answer: 25 feet
ANSI Z133 requires moving at least 10 feet (some guidelines specify 25 feet) from the refueling site before starting to prevent ignition of fuel vapors; 25 feet is the widely-cited safe distance.
CTSP Chainsaw Use and PPE 2
Which chainsaw chain feature is specifically designed to reduce kickback severity?