Table Saw

USING THE TABLE SAW

Table Saw Safety from the Power Tool Institute

Table-Saws.pdf

** NOTE: Click on the pop-out button (top right corner of the document) to view full page document. **

RULES OF THE TABLE SAW:

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 and/or neck ties, 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.


Before Starting the Table Saw

  1. While the machine is off, check your safety features.

      • This includes making sure that the anti-kickback mechanism and guards are installed and properly adjusted.

      • Make sure the fence is properly adjusted.

  2. Disconnect the power before changing blades.

  3. Adjust the blade to the correct height and angle.

  4. Inspect the wood before machining it. The wood must be dry and free of metal (staples and nails), loose nails and serious defects.

  5. Check to make sure the table and surrounding work area is clean.

  6. Make sure the area is free of people and give others a "heads up" that you will be using the saw.

  7. Make sure the dust collector is on before you start the machine.

  8. Arrange for a helper or set up stands if a long or large piece of lumber is to be sawed.



While in Operation:

  1. Like all machines, you must give the table saw your undivided attention during use. Do not use when overly tired, distracted or when on medications that cause sleepiness.

  • Do not look up or engage in conversation while working.

  • Do not play around the saw.

  1. Do not attempt to free hand-cut wood.

  2. Stand comfortably, with feet about shoulder width apart (for balance) and to one side of the work being fed.

  3. Never reach into blade while the machine is running.

  4. Push the material through with a slow and even movement.

  5. Use your safety tools, for example push sticks, push blocks and/or the "Gripper".

  • Generally, a 6" minimum is considered safe.

  1. Keep the rip fence parallel to the blade so that material does not bind on the blade and kick back.

  2. Do not use the fence and the miter gauge at the same time.

  3. Realize there is no shortcut in woodworking. When beginning your work on the planer, prepare yourself for a slower work pace that is more deliberate and safety conscious. Accept the fact that everything will take longer than you think.

  4. This is a 1 person machine. Everyone else should be outside of the safety zone.


Maintenance:

  1. Keep the floor in front of the saw free of cut-offs and piled up sawdust. Tripping or sliding into a running, or even stopped, saw blade can create problems.