How to Use Wood Chippers Safely

Place the wood chipper on a dry piece of ground that is perfectly level. Do not place the chipper on a sloped area or in a location where the wheels are at different elevations.

Examine the wood chipper, or read the instructions, to locate the safety shutoff, which all chippers are equipped with. These come in different forms, but are typically a red bar or button you press to shut off the machine in case of an emergency.

Examine the branches you will be chipping to make sure they are approximately 5 feet long and no more than the width of the wood chipper. If necessary, use an ax to chop the branches to the appropriate size. Do not try to stuff oversized branches into the chipper, since this can jam it.

Put on safety glasses, work gloves and ear protection before turning on the chipper. In addition, remove any jewelry or loose clothing to prevent it from getting caught in the chipper.

Examine the ground near the wood chipper, and remove any items that pose a tripping hazard, such as excess tools and pieces of wood or stones.

Turn on the chipper, and insert the first branch into the chipper trunk-first. Once you feel the metal wheels grip the trunk, release the branch and back away immediately. Wait until you no longer see the branch in the chipper before inserting another branch.

Chip smaller branches by placing them just inside the chipper and using a longer branch to push them forward until they are gripped by the grinding wheels. Never push smaller branches forward with your hands or other body parts.