How Old Is Too Old To Use a Chainsaw?

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While you may take great pride in your ability to take care of things around the house, be careful when it comes to using a chainsaw as you age. Unlike other powered lawn equipment, chainsaws carry a significant risk of personal injury— and can be deadly in the wrong hands.

Ahead, learn how to evaluate when you may be too old to operate a chainsaw and should call in a pro instead, with help from physical therapist Dr. Ron Miller and manual therapist Doug Bertram.

Risks of Using a Chainsaw as You Age

Chainsaw injuries can happen in a fraction of a second and are often due to losing control of the saw during operation. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports roughly 36,000 chainsaw injuries each year, resulting in serious lacerations, traumatic brain injuries, limb loss or death.

While chainsaws are dangerous to operate at any age, the risks are even higher for older adults. “As we grow older, our ability to control our balance, grip strength, reflex times, eyesight and physical stamina dramatically decreases,” Miller says. “This makes it difficult to operate chainsaws.” It’s crucial that you have the strength and stamina to handle a chainsaw in all conditions to avoid injury.

Tips for Using a Chainsaw Safely as You Age

If you’re not ready to put down the saw yet, consider these tips to do it safely.

Focus on small projects

Cut smaller logs and branches that are safely on the ground and avoid cutting while on a ladder or felling trees. Hire larger jobs out rather than tackling them yourself.

Opt for a lighter saw

Consider using a lightweight, electric saw that is easier to control. Regardless of the saw, always make sure the chain is sharp and properly tightened before use.

Follow safe practices:

Wear protective gear: Wearing eye and hearing protection, gloves and sturdy footwear is always sound advice, but don’t overlook chaps too, Miller says. Worn over pants and designed to stop a chainsaw chain, chaps can be the difference between a fatal injury and a superficial wound.

Never cut alone: Always have a cutting partner who remains nearby to help identify dangerous situations and call for help in the event of an accident.

Avoid working to fatigue: “Take breaks to stay awake and alert while operating a chainsaw,” Miller says. Stay well hydrated and fueled to keep your mind sharp during operation and stop when you start to feel tired.

So…. How Old Is Too Old To Use a Chainsaw?

“There’s no age that makes you too old to use a chainsaw,” Bertram says. “[But] you need adequate grip strength, adequate balance and good mental acuity.” It’s less about a specific number and more about your general health and ability. Conduct these physical fitness tests at home to gauge your grip strength, balance, leg and back strength, coordination and endurance. How you perform on these tests will give you a good idea of your functional fitness levels and whether handling a chainsaw is a good idea or not. When in doubt, hire a pro.

FAQ

What are some safer alternatives to chainsaws?

For smaller limbs and logs up to 12-in. in diameter, a bow saw or reciprocating saw with a pruning blade are lower risk options.

Is there an age limit for using a chainsaw?

Federal law prohibits anyone under the age of 18 from operating a chainsaw in a work setting, but there are no age limits for private chainsaw use on a residential property.

About the Experts

Dr. Ron Miller is a doctor of physical therapy and the owner of Pursuit Physical Therapy in Orlando, Florida.
Doug Bertram is a manual therapist, licensed acupuncturist and CEO of Structural Elements, a national franchise providing orthopedic wellness care.