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Last Updated: 6/22/2017 9:32:37 PM

Previous SEL Number: 01WF-02-CSAW

Description: Items of protective equipment worn while operating chain saws, that provide protection to the legs, or to the lower torso and legs, excluding the ankles and feet (certified as compliant with NFPA

National Fire Protection Association

1977).

ImportantFeatures: Wildland fire fighting chain saw protectors may be trousers, leg protectors, or leggings, and are designed to reduce the potential for cut-through by accidental chain saw contact. They consist of multilayered materials that wrap around the lower and sometime upper legs and use various hardware or fixtures to enable attachment to the wearer's legs. Chain saw protectors are required to meet specific requirements in ASTM F 1897, Standard Specification for Leg Protection for Chain Saw Users. Chain saw protectors are further required to meet heat resistance requirements.

Operating Considerations: Wildland fire fighting includes fire suppression and property conservation in woodlands, forests, grasslands, brush, prairies, and other such vegetation, or any combination of vegetation that is involved in a fire situation but is not within buildings or structures. However, wildland fire fighting increasingly involves an urban interface, which requires protection to structures that are endangered by wildland fires.

Wildland fire fighting chain saw protectors are supplemental wearable protection for use by wildland firefighters operating chains saws or engaged in using other cutting machinery and equipment. These protectors are intended to retard blade cut-through and may not be effective under all conditions of use. Use considerations are provided in OSHA Title 29 CFR

Code of Federal Regulations

Section 1910.132.

Training Requirements: Core Training: OSHA 1910.132.
Initial Training: Moderate (1-2 days)
Sustainment Training: Moderate (1-2 days)

Mandatory Standards:

NFPA 1977: Standard on Protective Clothing and Equipment for Wildland Fire Fighting, 2022 Edition (planned for incorporation into NFPA 1950)

Applicable Standards and References:

29 CFR 1910. 132 (OSHA), General Requirements

ASTM F1897-20 Standard Specification for Leg Protection for Chain Saw Users

NIOSH Publication No. 2008-132, Guidance on Emergency Responder Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Response to CBRN Terrorism Incidents, June 2008