QCTO Chainsaw Operator

By completing this training, learners gain essential forestry skills, improve workplace safety, and increase their employability in the forestry and agricultural industries.

This course is ideal for:

Forestry workers and contractors operating chainsaws.
Individuals seeking employment in forestry and timber harvesting.
Workers responsible for tree felling, maintenance, or land clearing.
Agricultural workers needing chainsaw handling skills.

Start date

Course price from

R21,678.00 incl. VAT

Course duration

29 Days

Course language

English

NQF level

Credits

Entry level

Grade 12

Course ID

SP-220901

Completing this course will enable you to:

Upon completing this course, participants will be able to:

Operate a chainsaw safely and efficiently in forestry environments.
Apply correct tree felling, cross-cutting, debranching, and stump cutting techniques.
Identify hazards and risks associated with chainsaw operations and implement control measures.
Maintain and service a chainsaw in compliance with operational standards.
Follow legal, environmental, and safety regulations to prevent accidents and injuries.

Entry Requirements:

Open entry; however, candidates must be physically able, with good vision and hand-eye coordination.
No prior experience required.

Course Outcomes

Chainsaw Safety & Risk Management

Identify workplace hazards and safety requirements.
Apply risk mitigation measures to prevent accidents.
Ensure compliance with forestry safety regulations.

Chainsaw Operation & Maintenance

Prepare, inspect, and maintain chainsaws before and after use.
Perform correct tree felling, debranching, and cross-cutting techniques.
Follow industry best practices for reducing chainsaw wear and tear.

Environmental & Legal Compliance

Understand forestry regulations and environmental considerations.
Apply best practices for sustainable forestry and minimal ecological impact.
Follow operational guidelines for responsible chainsaw use.

Course Conditions

Pricing is exclusive of Travel Accommodation, Meals and PPE
Pricing is Inclusive of Training Material, Facilitation, Assessment and Certification
Pricing is based on training implemented at KT Academy in Mbombela
Pricing is based on group sizes of 5 + learners in a group
Discounts apply for large groups
Accommodation and meals available on request at additional rate
Special Pricing may apply for Public Training Dates

Interested in training for your company?

Off-site training available at your business

Contact one of our Business Sales Executives for tailored made training solutions for your business.

+27 13 744 9328

Course Curriculum

Knowledge Modules (10 Credits)
KM-01: Introduction to Chainsaw Operations (Level 3, 2 Credits)

Types of chainsaws and their applications.
Anatomy of a chainsaw and key components.
Basic chainsaw physics and cutting principles.

KM-02: Chainsaw Safety & Risk Management (Level 3, 3 Credits)

Chainsaw-related hazards and risk assessment.
Personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements.
Safety procedures and emergency response techniques.

KM-03: Legal & Environmental Regulations (Level 3, 2 Credits)

Forestry laws and occupational safety legislation.
Environmental impact and sustainability considerations.
Best practices for responsible chainsaw operation.

KM-04: Chainsaw Maintenance & Troubleshooting (Level 3, 3 Credits)

Routine chainsaw inspection and servicing.
Blade sharpening, lubrication, and tensioning.
Troubleshooting common chainsaw faults.

Practical Skill Modules (7 Credits)
PM-01: Chainsaw Handling & Operation (Level 3, 3 Credits)

Starting, stopping, and handling a chainsaw safely.
Holding positions and grip techniques.
Correct chainsaw positioning for different cuts.

PM-02: Tree Felling Techniques (Level 3, 2 Credits)

Identifying tree fall direction and escape routes.
Making accurate directional notches and back cuts.
Controlling tree falls safely in different environments.

PM-03: Cross-Cutting & Debranching (Level 3, 2 Credits)

Safe removal of branches and sectioning logs.
Managing kickback and avoiding chainsaw pinching.
Handling timber efficiently for processing.
Workplace Experience Modules (6 Credits)

WM-01: Chainsaw Operations in Forestry (Level 3, 2 Credits)

Working in controlled forestry environments.
Applying chainsaw techniques to real-world tasks.
Coordinating with forestry teams and site supervisors.

WM-02: Chainsaw Maintenance in Field Conditions (Level 3, 2 Credits)

Performing on-site troubleshooting and servicing.
Replacing chains, bars, and worn components.
Adapting to different environmental and operational conditions.

WM-03: Safety Compliance & Risk Control (Level 3, 2 Credits)

Reporting incidents and following emergency procedures.
Conducting pre-operation safety checks.
Applying risk control measures in forestry settings.

Assessment & Certification
Formative Assessments:

Practical demonstrations, scenario-based evaluations, and safety drills.
Continuous assessment of chainsaw handling, maintenance, and hazard identification.

Summative Assessment:

Final practical assessment under simulated or real forestry conditions.
Written assessment covering safety, regulations, and operational best practices.

Certification:

Successful learners receive a recognised industry certificate, enabling them to work as qualified Chainsaw Operators in forestry, agriculture, and wood-processing sectors.

Why choose our Wildland Firefighting Courses?

Low-pressure lesson environment.
Extensive 20′ years experience in firefighting.
Recognised leaders in Widland Fire suppression.
Structured modular lessons.
We focus on both theory and practical knowledge.
Fully-accredited, experienced instructors.