What should you do before using a metal saw?
Hot metal saws can be dangerous if not used properly.
Hot metal saws, often referred to as cut-off saws or chop saws, use an abrasive cut-off wheel. The machine may operate dry or wet, at low or high speed, and in either manual or automatic mode.
Refer to the OSH Answers on Metalworking Machines - General for safety tips.
- context Read the owner's manual carefully.
- context Make sure you understand instructions and are properly trained before operating a hot metal saw.
What are some basic safety principles to follow?
Pleaserefer to the OSH Answers on Abrasive Wheels for additional information.
- context Wear appropriate CSA-certified personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, hearing protection and footwear as necessary.
- context Wear approved respiratory protection when necessary.
- context Handle and store wheels as directed by the manufacturer.
- context Inspect all wheels for possible damage before mounting.
- context Use the proper blade for the material being cut.
- context Check machine speed against the maximum safe operating speed marked on the wheel.
- context Make sure that mounting flanges are equal and have the correct diameter (at least 1/4 of the wheel diameter).
- context Use mounting blotters when they are supplied with wheels.
- context Clamp the work firmly in place when using non-reinforced cut-off wheels.
- context Use a properly designed safety guard covering at least one-half of the grinding wheel.
- context Allow mounted wheels to run at operating speed, with guards in place, for one minute before cutting.
- context Bring the wheel into contact with the work without bumping on impact.
- context Turn off the coolant before stopping the wheel to avoid an out-of-balance condition.
- context Keep the working surface clean of scraps, tools and materials.
- context Keep the floor around the saw clean and free of oil and grease.
- context Make sure that the saw has a start/stop or emergency button within easy reach of the operator.