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Return to shopA chainsaw is one of the most dangerous pieces of hand-held equipment used in forestry, agriculture, and construction. Our NPORS Chainsaw Maintenance & Cross Cutting (N602) course provides operators with the critical skills required to safely service the saw, sharpen the chain, and execute controlled cross-cuts on felled timber. Ensure your team operates safely, avoiding severe kickback injuries and equipment failure.
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Description
Course Overview
Operating a chainsaw safely requires absolute respect for the tool and a deep understanding of timber mechanics (tension and compression). This highly practical course is designed for groundworkers, landscapers, and forestry staff who need to safely maintain their equipment and cut timber that is already on the ground (Note: This course does not cover tree felling).
Candidates will receive comprehensive training covering PUWER regulations and specific HSE guidance (INDG 317). They will learn how to completely strip and clean the chainsaw, correctly sharpen the chain, identify damaged components, and perform safe cold/hot starts. In the field, operators will master safe cutting stances, pushing/pulling chain techniques, and the execution of boring cuts, all while managing severe hazards like noise, vibration, and kickback.
What You Will Learn
Upon successful completion, candidates will be competent in:
Pre-Use Checks & PPE: Identifying and inspecting mandatory protective clothing, including chainsaw-rated gloves, trousers (Type A/C), boots, and visors.
Chainsaw Maintenance: Stripping the guide bar, checking the sprocket/brake band for wear, and accurately sharpening and tensioning the chain using the correct tools.
Safe Starting Procedures: Executing safe hot and cold starts, and testing the inertia chain brake and full-throttle response before cutting.
Cross-Cutting Techniques: Safely executing cuts using the top and bottom of the guide bar (pushing and pulling chain), performing safe boring cuts, and reading timber tension/compression to avoid trapping the saw.
Hazard Management: Setting up safe exclusion zones, identifying environmental hazards (like stones, metal debris, or poisonous plants), and maintaining a safe operating stance.
Shutdown & Storage: Allowing the saw to cool, removing excess fuel for safe transit, and properly disposing of cut timber and waste materials.
Course Durations & Eligibility
Novice Duration: 2 Days (Required for candidates to master both the mechanical maintenance and the physical cutting techniques).
Class Ratio: Maximum 4 Learners : 1 Instructor : 1 Machine (Ensuring highly focused, close-supervision training).
Refresher courses are also available.
Testing & Certification
Candidates must pass a theoretical exam (80% pass mark) and a rigorous practical assessment. The practical test requires candidates to fully strip, clean, and re-tension the saw, perform safe start procedures, and execute various controlled cross-cuts on timber while maintaining a safe stance.
Upon successful completion, candidates will receive an NPORS card/certificate endorsing them for Chainsaw - Maintenance & Cross Cutting (N602).