Places are filling up fast on the 19 remaining Department of Agriculture-funded farmer chainsaw training courses to be held between now and October.
The free-to-participate two-day courses aim to upskill farmers in the safe and efficient use of chainsaws, with successful applicants to receive a QQI Level 5 certificate in chainsaw operations on completion.
The courses will be run by FRS Training in locations across Wicklow, Kildare, Cork, Kerry, Tipperary, Roscommon and Leitrim.
They are to cater for those aged 16 years or above who are actively involved in farming, with a herd number or farm address to be required when applying to verify this involvement.
FRS Training has said that chainsaws are among the most hazardous pieces of equipment in use on farms, warning that misuse can result in life-changing injuries or fatalities.
It will instruct participating farmers on safe operating techniques, equipment maintenance, risk assessment and the correct use of protective equipment.
Common chainsaw-related injuries include severe lacerations that can arise from kickbacks, poor equipment maintenance, inadequate safety gear or a lack of training.
Prevention
"Every year we hear of serious injuries resulting from chainsaw use, many of which could be prevented through proper training and the use of appropriate PPE,” head of sales and operations at FRS Training Ben Fearn said.
“These fully-funded courses offer an excellent opportunity to achieve a nationally recognised QQI qualification in chainsaw maintenance and operation, providing participants with the knowledge, practical skills and safety awareness needed to operate and maintain a chainsaw safely.”
Participants must bring chainsaw safety boots, chainsaw trousers and chainsaw gloves, as well as a forestry helmet with a visor and ear defenders, to take part in the practical side of the training.
Ffull details of course locations and dates to apply are available here.
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