Chainsaw protection classes: cut-resistant clothing for safety

How chainsaw protective clothing works

All work clothing with cut protection generally follows the same principle, based on a need to impede the moving chain of the chainsaw in the event of accidental contact with the user’s body. STIHL chainsaw protective trousers and chaps do this using special, high-tech fibres which are very long, thin and highly resistant; these fibres are arranged in multiple smooth layers and covered by the outer surface of the clothing. If a saw chain comes into contact with the clothing, it catches and pulls out the fibres in an instant, then the long tough threads wrap around the drive sprocket and quickly stop the chainsaw.

Chainsaw protection classes explained

Each type of protection equipment is not equally suitable for every type of user. Chainsaw protection classes have global classifications and are a way of designating clothing according to the maximum chainsaw speed it can effectively protect against. The four global protection classes go from 0 to 3, and in Australia the AS/NZS requirement for chiansaw leg protection is to comply with class 1. 

Be aware that, because accidents usually happen when a chainsaw is stopping – so at relatively low speeds – chainsaw protection classes can only function as a guide. Factors such as the sharpness of the individual saw chain, its tensioning and the angle of impact cannot be taken into account in the standardised tests used to determine PPE classes. Personal protective equipment cannot provide absolute protection from injury, nor is it a substitute for safe working practices. It is therefore essential to follow the instructions in the user manuals for both personal protective equipment and the relevant power tool, as well as any valid national accident prevention regulations.

Chainsaw protection classes: STIHL protective clothing

STIHL offers cut protection clothing in a variety of styles, sizes and designs, so you can be assured of effective protection while working with a chainsaw and being comfortable too.

STIHL chainsaw protective clothing is tested by the very prestigious European SMP or KWF testing institutes. That is why you can rest assured that any cut protection textiles you purchase from STIHL will offer reliable, rigorously tested protection. This icon is used to identify cut protection clothing and shoes that have passed safety testing in accordance with EN 381 or EN ISO 11393. In these standardised tests, the saw chain meets the protective inlay at a specified chain speed and must only cut through the inlay; the lining of the cut protection trousers must be completely undamaged. In Australia all STIHL Chainsaw leg protection is compliant to AS/NZS 4453:1997.

• Machine wash at no more than 60 degrees Celsius and spin at 400 rotations per minute or less
• Do not bleach, do not use chemical cleaners
• Do not wash chainsaw protection products inside out
• Close Velcro and zip closures before washing
• Wash similar colours together
• Use colour or mild detergent, but do not use fabric softener
• Air dry after washing and lay the article flat
• Iron at a low temperature to reactivate the dirt- and water-resistance in the outer layer
• Store clothing in a dry, dark place, ensuring it is thoroughly clean

Summary: chainsaw protection classes

• There are 4 chainsaw protection classes, numbered from 0 to 3. 
• Australian Standards (AS/NZS 4453:1997) require leg protection to comply with class 1 protection. 
• STIHL offers a range of chainsaw protective trousers and chaps. 
• Always wear personal protective equipment when working with tools, as directed in your owners manuals, and be sure to check the sizing guide