Chainsaw Operator Certification

Badge

Chainsaw Operator Certification

The holder of this badge has demonstrated safe usage of a chain saw for the purposes of trail maintenance.

DESCRIPTION OF SKILLS

The holder of this badge has demonstrated safe usage of a chain saw for the purposes of trail maintenance including proficiencies in the following skills:

  • Proper Personal Protective equipment for chainsaw operation including chaps, hearing protection and footwear
  • Situational awareness, the application of a Job Hazard Analysis and conducting a Tailgate Safety briefing
  • Site and Hazards evaluation using the OHLEC strategies
  • Maintaining current First Aid and CPR certifications

WHAT DOES THIS BADGE ALLOW ME TO DO?

This  badge will allow the holder to participate in a project within a Mountaineers' Stewardship activity or with other agencies such as Washington Trails Association, Back Country Horsemen of Washington or the Pacific Crest Trail Association where a chainsaw is permitted and needed based on the work to be done.

The badge-holder's  use of a chainsaw will conform with the US Forest Service National Saw Policy.  The National Saw Policy directive standardizes training, evaluation, certification and safety procedures for sawyers operating on lands managed by the Forest Service.  

HOW DO I GET THIS BADGE?

The Forest Service as well as Back Country Horsemen offer a certification or recertification class to become a certified chainsaw operator.  A current First Aid and CPR card is required to receive this badge.  Must be 18 years or older. The Mountaineers work with these groups to obtain certification which is valid for 3 years.

If you have completed training and certification with either of the above entities, please email Member Services to be connected with the appropriate Stewardship Committee Chair.