Using your Log Splitter Safely

As more and more people are splitting their own wood to heat their homes with fireplaces and wood stoves, safety has become a larger concern. Follow these general guidelines for each type of log splitting method to safely work through your wood pile.

Splitting Wood Manually by Axe or Maul

• Safety gear is essential. Protective goggles and gloves should always be worn
• Steel-toed boots are also a good idea. Never wear open toed shoes or sandals
• Be sure to start with your log on a level, sturdy base
• Larger logs should be split between the center and outer edge
• Cut logs into quarters or eighths. Smaller sections become unstable and harder to hit
• Dry wood is much easier to split
• Inspect wood for nails, knots or anything else that could affect the path of the maul through the wood
• Stand with your feet shoulder width apart
• Hold the maul in front of you to gauge distance
• Allow gravity to assist as you swing the maul down
• Be sure that the maul hits squarely as to not deflect to either side
• If the log needs to be split again, clear the pieces and reposition the log securely on the base
• Clean your tool after every use. This cuts down on corrosion and keeps edges sharp

Splitting Wood with Machinery

• Again, wear proper safety gear. Goggles, gloves and proper footwear are paramount
• Keep children and pets out of the area. Splintered wood can become airborne
• Always read the instructions for safety issues specific to your model
• Never use your splitter under the influence of alcohol or other mind altering substances
• Only use you splitter with proper lighting, never at night
• Be sure that your splitter is sitting squarely on level ground
• Do not attempt to cut anything besides wood
• Never operate a splitter in wet, muddy, or icy conditions
• Use wheel chocks to ensure that splitter cannot roll
• For gas units, only operate in an open ventilated area
• For electric units, be sure that your extension cord can supply proper power
• Inspect extension cords for nicks or other damage
• Some Hydraulic systems have an air release valve that should be opened before use and closed after
• Be mindful of how you hold the log. Never place your hands between the wood and the splitting wedge
• Log splitting is a one-person job. Accidents can occur when two or more people are in the splitting area
• Be sure to check hydraulic oil levels in accordance with your machine’s specifications
• Clean all parts of the splitter after each use
• Do not alter your splitter in any way, for any reason