Rank: Forum user 
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I can find masses of information on chainsaw safety but is all refers to petrol chainsaws. My own feeling is that a chainsaw is a chainsaw and is therefore a dangerous piece of kit for which training and PPE is required. However, I am dealing with people who are insisting that an electric chainsaw is safer. Can anyone point me to some guidance that can confirm this one way or the other?
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Rank: Forum user 
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The only difference is the power source, i.e. an electric motor, or a 2 stoke petrol driven motor. Arrangement of chain with regard to speed, sharpness etc is exactly the same. With regards to PPE, they still need the same i.e. kevlar type trousers and jacket, chainsaw gloves, eye protection, electric chainsaws are slightly quieter, and produce no fumes so are more suited for confined spaces.
Phil
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Rank: Forum user
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INDG317 also offers good advice.
It doesn't differentiate between petrol or electric powered, however the biggest risk is the moving chain, and the same type is fitted to both models so the advice does carry over
Phil
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Rank: Forum user
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Thanks Phil.
This pretty much ties up with what I thought. I have a copy of INDG317 but unfortunately is starts with the wording 'this leaflet gives advise on using portable, hand-held, petrol-engine chainsaws'. I am dealing with idiots who are insisting that it doesn't apply to electric chainsaws.
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Rank: Forum user
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I would simply offer them the explanation that the "hurty bit on the end"
i.e the chain is exactly the same in both instances.
The only time electric chainsaws are "safer" is in a confined space as they don't emit any fumes. All of the mitigation measures used in INDG317 relate to the chain and noise issues. BOTH of which are just as onerous for either type of machine. Hand arm vibration will also be less for an electric driven model, but must be assessed as you would the 2 stroke petrol powered saw.
Phil
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Rank: Super forum user 
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Electric chain saws have no fire risk, no risk of exposure to petrol vapour when refilling, no skin contact hazard................ is this what they mean? Otherwise as has been stated, the hazards and risks are similar apart from the new one of electricity..............
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Rank: Forum user
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Pikeman wrote:Electric chain saws have no fire risk, no risk of exposure to petrol vapour when refilling, no skin contact hazard................ is this what they mean? I wish. No they think that training and PPE does not apply! They don't use it an home and so feel that I am being a jobsworth for suggesting that it is necessary.
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Rank: Forum user
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Hi Jeni,
I was called to "home use" of an electric chainsaw last year on behalf of the Ambulance Service.
The Guy was reaching out with one hand and holding onto the ladder with the other. The saw went through the branch, and swung down onto his cargo pants. It then went through the iPhone in his pocket, and was only stopped coming through the other side cos His femur got in the way.
As His mobile was in half and embedded in His leg, he nearly bled to death as he couldn't raise the alarm.
Pity you can't show them the photos!!!
Phil
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Rank: Forum user
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Explain that at work the company has to pay for these things and they have to wear them.
At home only they will pay.
I would probably give up on the negotiation because the risks are so obvious that the people are simply being contrary. I would insist they do the work with your precautions or don't do the work. Sometimes we do need to be firm and blunt.
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