The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) urges the public to leave storm clean-up to professionals, particularly when using chainsaws.
As Storm Éowyn's winds subside, the full extent of the damage wrought by the storm is becoming apparent. Communities are now faced with the daunting task of assessing and addressing the destruction left in its wake. In the face of this widespread devastation, the Health and Safety Authority ( HSA ) has issued a crucial warning as clean-up operations commence.
The HSA is strongly urging the public to defer immediate clean-up efforts to emergency services and professional operators who possess the necessary expertise and equipment to carry out the work safely. Chainsaws, indispensable tools for removing fallen trees and branches, pose significant risks, particularly when operated by individuals lacking proper training. While the public's well-intentioned desire to assist is commendable, the HSA emphasizes that only trained and competent operators equipped with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) should handle chainsaws. Mark Cullen, Chief Inspector with the HSA, underscores this point, stating, 'If you don’t have the proper training or equipment to safely use a chainsaw, don’t take the risk and instead engage with emergency and professional services.' He further advises, 'Farmers in particular may be tempted to deal with fallen trees on their land or on adjoining roads. Personal safety must be the main priority and I strongly urge only those with the necessary skills to undertake work with chainsaws.'The HSA's recommendations regarding chainsaw use are particularly relevant in the context of storm damage. Fallen trees often present additional hazards, such as tensioned branches or proximity to live electrical cables. The HSA stresses that individuals should refrain from clearing or approaching trees entangled with power lines, assuming all cables are live and reporting any such occurrences to ESB Networks at 1800 372 999. Moreover, clean-up tasks frequently involve working at heights, such as removing debris from roofs or elevated structures. The HSA advises engaging qualified professionals for tasks involving complex or hazardous heights. These workers should avoid working at heights during high winds or adverse weather conditions and utilize proper fall protection equipment, including harnesses and lanyards. Additionally, workers must ensure ladders and equipment are securely positioned on stable surfaces, avoid overreaching or overloading ladders, and have a spotter present whenever possible
STORM SAFETY CLEAN-UP CHAINSAWS HSA
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