Operator
The user should be in reasonably good shape and use the right equipment. Dress properly and with outdoor work in mind. This includes a hard hat, chaps to deflect any impacts, good quality boots and work gloves, as well as hearing protection. Dress in snug fitting but not tight clothing, which allows movement as needed.

Select the right chainsaw for the job. Lightweight saws with an 8 to 12 inch bar are used for limbs or felling very small trees less than six inches in diameter. Middle sized chainsaws are 14 to 20 inch and used for regular work, falling small trees up to 18 inches. These are the typical consumer saws found in tool and hardware stores or from online merchants. Heavy saws are over 20 inches at the bar and rugged enough for professional use. The right saw makes the chainsaw's use more efficient and less tiring for the operator. Ask a professional salesman or colleague what is the recommended type for the type of work planned for this machinery.

3. Always keep the chainsaw properly maintained. Keep the chain adjusted to the proper tension, and sharpen as needed. The operator's instruction guide will tell the owner many details for proper maintenance of the equipment. Generally, before putting it away do a quick check for tension and lubrication. Before the heavy use season install a clean air filter, ensure there is a good spark plug and an effective muffler. Replace if needed. Ensuring the equipment is properly maintained means the chainsaw will be at best performance when needed. Clean cuts are important for appearance, tree health and quality logging. They also slow down fatigue.

4. Always ensure no power lines are around the tree or wood being cut by the chainsaw. If the tree is being felled or came down in a storm, it is important to make sure there are no live wires touching the tree. If it is down, ensure it is stable before cutting. Do not stand on the tree log, as a slight shift can result in a fall and possible injury. During operation, begin by removing the smaller limbs. Once the limbs are removed, cutting the tree up in earnest can begin.

Proper maintenance, proper equipment and proper preparation can go a long way towards effective, productive and safe chainsaw operation.