Woodworking Machines - General Safety Tips

What should you do before using woodworking machines?

Woodworking tools can be dangerous if not used properly.

• context Only use woodworking machines that you have been trained to use properly and safely.
• context Read the owner's manual carefully.
• context Make sure you understand instructions before attempting to use any tool or machine. Ask questions if you have any doubts about doing the work safely.

What safety procedures should you follow when using woodworking machines?

• context Always wear safety glasses or goggles, or a face shield (with safety glasses or goggles).
• context Wear an appropriate respirator when required and follow your workplace's respiratory protection program.
• context Wear hearing protection that is suitable for the level and frequency of the noise you are exposed to in the woodworking area. If you have trouble hearing someone speak from three feet away, the noise level from the machine is too high. Damage to hearing may occur.
• context Use gloves to protect hands from splinters when handling wood but do not wear them near rotating blades and other machinery parts where the gloves can catch.
• context Wear protective footwear when required.
• context Make sure the guard is in position, is in good working condition, and guards the machine adequately before operating any equipment or machine. Check and adjust all other safety devices.
• context Make sure the equipment is properly grounded before use.
• context Check that keys and adjusting wrenches are removed from the machine before turning on the power.
• context Inspect stock for nails, staples, loose knots or other defects before cutting, planing, routing, or carrying out similar activities.
• context Make sure that all machines have start and stop buttons within easy and convenient reach of an operator. Start buttons should be protected so that accidental contact will not start the machine. A collar around the button 3 to 6 mm (1/8 to 1/4 inch) above the button is recommended.
• context Ensure that all cutting tools and blades are clean, sharp, and in good working order so that they will cut freely, not forced.
• context Turn the power off and unplug the power cord (or lock out the power source) before inspecting, changing, cleaning, adjusting or repairing a blade or a machine. Also, turn the power off when discussing the work or when your attention is distracted.
• context Use a "push stick" to push material into the cutting area. Jigs are also useful in keeping hands safe during cutting procedures. Keep hands out of the line of the cutting blade.
• context Clamp down and secure all work pieces when drilling, sanding, cutting or milling.
• context Use good lighting so that the work piece, cutting blades, and machine controls can be seen clearly. Position or shade lighting sources so they do not shine in the operator's eyes or cause any glare and reflections.
• context Ensure that the floor space around the equipment is sufficient to enable you to machine the size of work piece being processed safely without bumping into other workers or equipment.
• context Use extension tables or roller supports for large workpieces. Supports should be placed on both sides (infeed and outfeed).
• context Woodworking machines should be fitted with efficient and well-maintained local exhaust ventilation systems to remove sawdust or chips that are produced.
• context Electric power cords should be above head level or in the floor in such a way that they are not tripping hazards.
• context Keep work area free of clutter, clean, well swept, and well lit. Spills should be cleaned up immediately. Floor areas should be level and non-slip. Good housekeeping practices and workplace design will reduce the number of injuries and accidents from slips, trips, and falls.
• context Keep the area free from water and moisture. Do not use electrical equipment outdoors in the rain.
• context Always keep your attention on the work. For example, if you must talk to another person, turn off the equipment first.

What not to do when working with woodworking machines?

• context Do not wear loose clothing, work gloves, neckties, rings, bracelets or other jewellery that can become entangled with moving parts.
• context Avoid awkward operations and hand positions where a sudden slip could cause your hand to move into the cutting tool or blade.
• context Do not stand directly behind stock that is being cut, planed, or jointed to avoid injury from kick-back.
• context Do not remove sawdust or cuttings from the cutting head by hand while a machine is running. Use a stick or brush when the machine has stopped moving.
• context Do not use compressed air to remove sawdust, turnings, etc. from machines or clothing.
• context Do not leave machines running unattended (unless they are designed and intended to be operated while unattended). Do not leave a machine until the power off is turned off and the machine comes to a complete stop.
• context Do not try to free a stalled blade before turning the power off.
• context Do not distract or startle an operator while he or she is using woodworking equipment.
• context Horseplay should be prohibited. It can lead to injuries.
• context Do not perform maintenance on the machine unless all hazardous energy is controlled.