What PPE Do You Actually Need for Chainsaw Safety?

Operating a chainsaw might look straightforward, but one slip or split-second miscalculation can lead to serious injury. Whether you're trimming branches or tackling heavy-duty felling, gearing up with the right PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) is essential.

At Overberg Arborists, safety is everything. Here’s a breakdown of the must-have PPE every chainsaw user should wear, and why cutting corners isn’t worth it.

What Should You Wear on Your Head for Chainsaw Work?

Hard Helmet with Face Shield

Falling branches, kickback, and splinters are a real threat, especially when cutting above shoulder height or felling trees.

A hard helmet protects your skull, while a built-in face shield or visor stops chips and debris from hitting your eyes and face.

Pro tip: Choose a helmet system rated for forestry or arborist work, not a basic construction model.

Do You Really Need Eye and Ear Protection?

Absolutely. Chainsaws generate debris and noise at levels that can cause permanent damage.

• Safety goggles (or glasses with side shields) protect your eyes from flying wood chips and dust.

• Earmuffs or earplugs guard your hearing. Chainsaws often exceed 100 decibels, which is enough to damage hearing in minutes.

What Type of Clothing Should You Wear for Chainsaw Use?

Cut-Resistant Chaps and Jackets

Chainsaw chaps are made with layered, tear-resistant fibres designed to jam the chain if contact happens (buy you precious seconds that can save your leg).

Jackets with similar materials protect your torso and arms.

Bonus: good-quality PPE is breathable and designed for movement, so you won’t overheat or lose mobility.

Do Gloves Really Make a Difference?

Yes, especially cut-resistant ones.

Your hands are close to the action, constantly handling the saw, chain tensioner, fuel, and debris.

Chainsaw gloves are padded, reinforced, and built to protect against both mechanical cuts and vibrations.

Look for styles with extra protection on the back of the left hand, the most common area for injuries during kickback.

What Boots Should Chainsaw Users Wear?

Chainsaw-Rated Safety Boots, like Jim Green Footwear.

A decent pair of boots will protect your toes. A certified pair of chainsaw boots will protect your entire lower leg.

These boots often include:

• Steel toe caps

• Cut-resistant uppers

• Non-slip soles

• Ankle support for rough terrain

  
  

They’re heavy for a reason: safety first.

Are Chainsaw Pants or Leggings Worth It?

If you’re not wearing full chaps, yes.

Chainsaw pants or leggings provide integrated leg protection without the extra bulk of over-chaps. They’re designed with cut-resistant panels around the front and sides, where most chainsaw injuries occur.

Perfect for arborists or anyone doing frequent tree work who needs a more streamlined option.

Final Word: Is Chainsaw PPE Really That Important?

Yes. Every single piece plays a role in keeping you safe. Whether you're a professional arborist or a DIYer cutting firewood on the farm, the risk never goes away, but it can be drastically reduced.

So gear up properly, every time.

Quick PPE Checklist for Chainsaw Users:

• Hard helmet with face shield or visor

• Safety goggles or glasses

• Earmuffs or earplugs

• Chainsaw chaps or pants

• Cut-resistant gloves

• Chainsaw safety boots