Prevention of timber felling and chainsaw-related accidents in the Republic of Ireland

A one-year prospective survey in four rural Irish counties was performed between January 1 and December 31, 1986, to analyse chainsaw accidents in a representative sample of domestic chainsaw users. Of the 62 accident cases recorded, the largest group were farmers, followed by a medley of self-employed “loggers” and domestic users. Every age group was represented, the commonest age group being 16–30 years. One of three female cases was an old-aged pensioner, and three other cases were aged under 12 years. Two of the latter cases had been using the saw when the accident occurred. Most injuries were sustained to the lower extremities, mostly due to a slip or misdirection of the saw. Of the 27 cases admitted to a hospital, 25 (93%) required surgical procedures with an average inpatient stay of eight days. Only 2 (3%) of the 62 cases wore an item of protective gear; in both cases, this was steel capped boots that were unsuitable for protection against chainsaw injuries. First aid at the accident site was very inadequate. The research indicates few of the cases were competent to use a power saw, and there was a general lack of appreciation of the risks associated with these implements and a disregard for safety procedures. While new forthcoming legislation on safety at work may improve safety standards in the future, a substantial proportion of chainsaw users in Ireland are currently at risk from further accidents.