If a firefighter sees dust when using a chainsaw, what condition is indicated about the chain?

When a firefighter observes dust while using a chainsaw, it typically indicates that the chain is dull. A dull chain does not cut efficiently, which causes it to generate fine dust rather than clean chips of wood. This dust signifies that the cutting edges of the chain are not adequately sharp to effectively slice through the material, resulting in a less effective and more strenuous cutting process.

In contrast, if there were too much lubrication, the chain would continue to work smoothly and effectively, not generating dust. An overheated chain would exhibit signs of discoloration or burning rather than just producing dust. A chain that is too tight may create excessive friction and heat, potentially leading to more significant issues, but it wouldn't lead to the creation of dust per se. Thus, observing dust clearly indicates that the chain requires sharpening to restore its cutting efficiency.