Two Fabians exposed to a one-week chainsaw appreciation course
In August/September 2005, Solomon Gebeyehu and James Mehl (jointly supported through the TPCP and CTHB programmes at FABI) went on a chainsaw appreciation course run by a very experienced
instructor, Chucks Thabethe from Aquila Training in Sabie.
Solomon had found that it had become increasingly difficult to obtain the services of a chainsaw operator when whole trees needed to be cut down for sampling purposes to ascertain what was killing them. The use of a handsaw/bowsaw was inadequate for this purpose. James’ research required sampling from the indigenous kiaat tree, a very hard wood, and so both FABIans needed to learn the skills of sampling and cutting down trees, as well as the safety factors necessary when using a chainsaw.
Solomon and James learnt the theory and safety of the clothing required for this type of work, as well as the safety features on modern chainsaws. They received training on cutting through the wood; felling and debranching of pine and other trees using both single and double cuts; dealing with tree hangup; and general aspects of the maintenance of the chainsaw. We are pleased to report that both Solomon and James passed the test at the end of the week with flying FABI colours!
Unfortunately no photos were taken of our two “lumberjacks” in Sabie, but on their return to Pretoria, they were happy to don their very bright woodcutters’ clothes and pose for a photo. (From left to right, Solomon Gebeyehu and James Mehl).
Solomon had found that it had become increasingly difficult to obtain the services of a chainsaw operator when whole trees needed to be cut down for sampling purposes to ascertain what was killing them. The use of a handsaw/bowsaw was inadequate for this purpose. James’ research required sampling from the indigenous kiaat tree, a very hard wood, and so both FABIans needed to learn the skills of sampling and cutting down trees, as well as the safety factors necessary when using a chainsaw.
Solomon and James learnt the theory and safety of the clothing required for this type of work, as well as the safety features on modern chainsaws. They received training on cutting through the wood; felling and debranching of pine and other trees using both single and double cuts; dealing with tree hangup; and general aspects of the maintenance of the chainsaw. We are pleased to report that both Solomon and James passed the test at the end of the week with flying FABI colours!
Unfortunately no photos were taken of our two “lumberjacks” in Sabie, but on their return to Pretoria, they were happy to don their very bright woodcutters’ clothes and pose for a photo. (From left to right, Solomon Gebeyehu and James Mehl).
