What are some safety tips to know when using a wood chisel?
Wood chisels are made in various shapes and sizes and for many uses. Use the correct chisel for the job.
- requirement Use the right size of chisel for the job.
- requirement Choose smooth, rectangular handles with no sharp edges attached firmly to the chisel.
- requirement Make sure that the cutting edge is sharp. Dull chisels can be difficult to control and require more effort to do the job.
- requirement Check the stock (wood) thoroughly for knots, staples, nails, screws, or other foreign objects before chiselling.
- requirement Clamp the stock so it cannot move.
- requirement Adjust your stance so that you do not lose your balance if the tool slips.
- requirement Chip or cut with the blade pointing away from yourself.
- requirement Keep your hands and body behind the cutting edge.
- requirement Use a wooden or plastic mallet with a large striking face on all chisels. Only heavy-duty or framing chisels are made of a solid or moulded handle that can be struck with a steel hammer.
- requirement Make finishing or paring cuts with hand pressure alone.
- requirement When keeping the chisels on the workbench, always place them with the bevel side up.
- requirement Place chisels safely within the plastic protective caps to cover cutting edges when not in use.
- requirement Replace any chisel that is bent or shows dents, cracks, chips, or excessive wear.
- requirement Store chisels in a "storage roll," a cloth or plastic bag with slots for each chisel, and keep them in a drawer or tray.
- requirement Replace broken or splintered handles.
- requirement Sharpen cutting edges as often as necessary.
- ppe Wear eye protection (safety glasses, goggles, or face shield with safety glasses or goggles) if there is a risk of eye injury from particles released from the workpiece or when sharpening.