power miter saw

Miter saws are one of the most versatile tools in wood working, used for tight corners, concise angles and fine finishing. With blade speeds of nearly 140 mph, improper use can cause serious injury. It takes only a split second to change the course of your life forever. Keep in mind, saws account for a large share of power tool accidents.

GENERAL SAFETY AND USE

1. Be sure to have your instructor's permission before operating the machine. This includes the expectation that you have:

• Taken and passed the safety test.

• Demonstrated the proper use of this power tool to your instructor.

• Demonstrated the ability to work safely while in the wood shop.

2. Do not use when overly tired, distracted or when on medications that cause sleepiness.

3. Wear appropriate shoes and clothing.

• Always wear eye protection.

• Clothing should not be loose, baggy or torn.

• Remove ALL jewelry, tie back long hair and roll up long sleeves

• Open-toes shoes and Crocs should NOT be worn.

• Remove all headphones and AirPods when operating machinery.

4. All adjustments made to the machine should be done while the power is off.

5. Check the guards for proper machine operation before starting to use this machine.

6. Make sure that any other objects or scraps to not impede the use of the miter saw.

7. The power miter box has an electric stop built into the trigger switch.

8. The majority of the stock should be on the left hand side of the blade.

9. Material should be properly clamped during operation. Do not use the miter saw to cut pieces that are too small to be clamped.

10. Always unplug the machine to make adjustments.

11. During the cut, stand to one side of the cutting line.

• Left hand should be placed on saw fence or table - well out of the way of the blade.

• Keep hands and fingers at least 8 inches away from moving parts.

• Do not attempt to hold short pieces of material with your hand.

• Make sure the blade is at full speed before lowering the saw and moving through the material.

• Always lower the blade and push through the cut with even pressure.

• A pull cut may cause unwanted kick back and injury.

• Never have your hand and arm holding the work and extending over the cut line.

12. Stock must be supported in such a way that the kerf will not close and bind the blade during the cut or at the end of the cut.

• Use stands or saw horses, not a second person.

13. When the cut is complete, let the saw blade come to a complete stop before returning the saw to its rest position or removing your material.

POPULAR WOODWORKING MAGAZINE: "I Can Do That"

Chapter: Saws - Jigsaw, Miter Saw & Circular Saw

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