The table saw is the most often used woodworking machine in the workshop. Statistically, it is also the most dangerous, as it appears to cause more disabling injuries than any other woodworking power instrument. Is this to say that the table saw can't be used safely? Not. A woodworker can significantly lessen the potential of harm when using a table saw by using adequate, common-sense precautions. Here are twelve safety precautions that every woodworker should follow before using a table saw:
Wearing suitable safety equipment when using power tools should be deemed mandatory. Woodworkers should always wear safety glasses and hearing protection, but they should also wear proper attire. When operating a table saw, avoid wearing loose-fitting clothing, neckties, and jewellery.
Keep the Area Clean
Keep the table and surrounding area free of stock, cut-offs, and excess sawdust when using a table saw. Any of these things can obstruct or impede a woodworker's ability to produce safe, clean cuts. If a loose piece of stock comes into touch with a moving blade, it can become a projectile. Check Safety Features Always check the safety features of your table saw to ensure that they are adjusted and working correctly before commencing any table saw activity. The saw blade guard, riving knife, and antikickback pawls are intended to safeguard the woodworker and should be correctly adjusted before turning on the power.
Use Outfeed Tables/Stands When Appropriate
Position an outfeed table or stand to help support big pieces of stock, such as a full sheet of plywood, when cutting. Using these aids will make the cut steadier and the cut easier to complete.
Always Disconnect Power Before Changing Blade
The woodworker should always turn off the table saw before changing the blade or making any other internal changes. This eliminates the danger of the saw being accidentally turned on while the table saw is being serviced.
Do not begin saw operation with the blade engaged.
When getting ready to start the saw, the woodworker should make sure the blade is spinning freely and not caught in the stock. After turning on the engine, the blade should be let to achieve full speed before beginning the cut.
Maintain a Good Position
To maintain proper balance while standing at the table saw, the woodworker should maintain a good, firm stance with a wide base. Furthermore, one should not stand exactly in front of the blade so that if a kickback occurs, the stock will move past the operator's midsection rather than kick back into the body.
Never Reach Over a Moving Blade
While the blade is still moving, the operator should never reach for or make any fence or blade modifications. Instead, wait until the blade comes to a complete halt before attempting to reach or make any changes.
Use Proper Inserts
Always use the appropriate zero-clearance blade inserts when working with a table saw. A suitable insert should be utilized alongside a stacked dado blade. A piece of stock that falls into the saw cabinet without a blade insert could become a dangerous projectile.
Never Free-Hand a Cut
A free-hand cut should never be attempted when using a table saw. Instead, guide the stock with a fence or mitre gauge. However, the fence and mitre gauge should never be used simultaneously since the end grain of the stock can bind against the fence.
Check Stock for Foreign Objects
Before commencing any cut, the woodworker should carefully inspect the board to be cut for any foreign objects such as a screw, nail, staple, or even a loose knot in the wood. If it comes into contact with a spinning blade, any of these can come loose and become a hazardous projectile. A carefully built metal detector is ideal for checking for hidden fasteners in stock, especially when working with recycled material.
Use a Push Stick
When there are fewer than six inches of stock away from the blade on the board being cut, a push stick should be utilized to help push the board through the blade. This helps to keep the woodworker's fingertips safe from the blade. Proper push sticks can be made in the shop or obtained from any reputable woodworking supplier.
