Log Splitter Safety: Operate Outdoor Power Equipment

Follow our tips for safely using a log splitter

Outdoor power equipment helps you churn through yard work efficiently so you can move on to fun activities like spending time with your kids. Log splitters in particular cut down on the time and energy it takes to clean up after felling a tree or getting firewood ready for winter. However, when using a log splitter or other outdoor power equipment, it's particularly important to pay attention to the instructions to ensure safe operation. Check out these log splitter safety tips and read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine and in the operator's manual before attempting to assemble and operate Outdoor Power Equipment like a log splitter.

Be familiar with all controls and proper operation.
Know how to stop the machine and disengage quickly.
Never allow children under 16 years old to operate this machine. Children 16 years old and over should read and understand instructions and log splitter safety rules in this manual and should be trained and supervised by a parent.
Many accidents occur when more than one person operates the machine. If a, never activate the control until the helper is a minimum of 10 feet from the machine.
Keep bystanders, pets and children at least 20 feet from the machine while it is in operation.
Check for fluid leaks. Hydraulic log splitters develop high fluid pressures during operation. Fluid escaping through a pin hole opening can penetrate your skin and cause blood poisoning, gangrene, or even death if untreated. That's why proper splitter safety protocol includes checking for fluid leaks before operation.
Keep the operator zone and adjacent area clear for safe, secure fitting.
Do not use this machine for any other purpose than splitting wood.
Always wear safety shoes or heavy boots when using a log splitter.
Wear safety glasses or safety goggles whenever operating this machine.
Never wear jewelry or loose clothing that might become entangled in moving or rotating parts of outdoor power equipment.
Make sure the machine is on a level surface before operating.
Always block the machine to prevent unintended movement, and lock in either horizontal or vertical position.
Stand within the operator zone(s) specified in your operators manual when using a log splitter.
Cut logs so they have square ends prior to splitting. Learn more about log splitter safety and tips to properly cut a log.
Use a log splitter in daylight or under good artificial light.
Avoid personal injury or property damage by using extreme care in handling gasoline.
Never leave the log splitter unattended with the engine running.
Keep fingers away from any cracks that open in the wood while using the log splitter. They can quickly close and pinch or amputate your fingers.