Chainsaw Safety Workshop

​The Benzie Conservation District is offering a free, all day workshop in “Chainsaw Safety,” on Saturday, April 2, 2016, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, at the Benzie County Health Department Community Room, 6051 Frankfort Hwy, Benzonia. The event will consist of five hours of classroom presentation running from 9:00 to 3:30 followed by a 1-2 hour field demonstration.
 
A chainsaw is arguably the most dangerous hand-tool known to mankind. Yet, it can be purchased without proof of qualifications or a certification. To help area landowners increase their current skill level in using a chainsaw more safely, District Forester Kama Ross urges anyone who is interested to attend. As spring is upon us this is a great opportunity to gain knowledge and firsthand experience before cutting down dead ash trees.
 
The course is offered by the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration, under the General Industry Safety Standards, Part 53, Tree Trimming and Removal and paid for through the Consultation, Education, and Training Grant. The grant is administered by Bay College in Escanaba, Michigan and taught by instructor Chuck Oslund, retired surveyor and firefighter for the USDA Forest Service.
 
Chuck has more than 25 years of professional chainsaw experience and training which he has incorporated into a chainsaw safety system. His seminars teach why each saw operator must have a safety system, the elements of a good safety system, mental aspects of safety, safer chainsaw handling techniques, and the state-of-the-art safest way to fall a large diameter tree. If you currently operate a chainsaw, or plan to purchase a saw in the future, you need to be aware of these concepts to help you use it safely.
 
The workshop is free of charge. Pre-registration is required by calling the Benzie Conservation District office at 231-882-4391 or emailing aime@benziecd.org by March 31. Lunch and snack will be provided, donations suggested.