As Storm Éowyn passes through the country today (Friday, January 24) and clean-up operations get underway, the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has urged "safety first".

The HSA has advised that the immediate clean-up operation be left with the emergency services and professional operators who have the necessary competence to undertake the work safely.

While chainsaws are essential equipment for removing fallen trees and branches, the HSA warns that there are "serious dangers" associated with their use.

Only trained and competent operators equipped with the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) should handle chainsaws, according to HSA safety advice.

Chief inspector with the HSA Mark Cullen said : “Farmers in particular may be tempted to deal with fallen trees on their land or on adjoining roads. Personal safety must be the main priority and I strongly urge only those with the necessary skills to undertake work with chainsaws”.

The HSA recommends the following when using a chainsaw:

Conduct a risk assessment before starting any chainsaw work;
Wear the essential protective gear such as helmets, eye protection, specialist chainsaw gloves and leg protection, and steel-toe boots;
Ensure the chainsaw is properly maintained, including functioning chain brakes and sharp blades;
Avoid working alone or in hazardous weather conditions.

Storm-damaged and fallen trees often involve additional dangers, such as tensioned branches or interaction with live electrical cables.

The HSA has warned the public to not attempt to clear or approach fallen trees that are entangled with power lines, and to assume all cables are live, and report incidences to ESB Networks on 1800 372 999.

In addition, clean-up work often involves working at height, such as clearing debris from roofs or elevated structures.

The HSA urges workers to avoid this work during high winds and engage with qualified professionals for tasks involving complex or hazardous heights.