Safety
Basic Woodshop Safety
1. Do not enter the shop or turn on a power tool without eye protection. Ear plugs or muffs and dust masks are also highly recommended.
2. Always use the dust collection system. Keep work areas tidy and put away tools when finished using them. Be aware of the activity of others in the shop. Do not interrupt someone working at a machine.
3. Do a complete assessment of a power tool before using it - you are the best protector of your own safety, whether someone else left a tool in an unsafe condition will be of little solace if you or someone else is injured because you didn't do the proper safety checks:
- Always unplug the machine from the power source when checking it or making adjustments.
- Follow any written directions for the use of the machine.
- Make sure the tool is in good condition with no frayed electrical wires, broken parts, residue build-up on the blade, or other obvious defects.
- Make sure the blade or bit is sharp.
- Check that the machine is set up properly and in accordance with any instructions.
- Check power saw blades or the disc sander face for square relative to the table or bench and for saw blades also check for square relative to the fence.
- Never clean or adjust a machine while it is running.
- Make sure the tool's power cord is well clear of the cutting path when using portable saws or other cutting tools.
- Be aware of the amount of blade projecting below the cut when using a portable saw and plan the cutting path to avoid table tops or other supports.
- Do a practice run-through of the cutting path to make sure nothing is obstructing the way.
- Know how to turn the machine off in case of emergency.
- Do not leave a machine running and stay with any machine that has been turned off until it comes to a complete stop.
4. Make use of safety devices such as push sticks and blocks to move materials through the saw and other machines. Use clamps to keep pieces secure. Use jigs if they are available. Vibration can move objects into dangerous contact with machines - keep workpieces on a separate work table and discard scraps as they are made.
5. Safety is a matter of attitude. At the machines be relaxed but alert and follow these basic precautions:
- Remove jewelry, avoid wearing loose-fitting or baggy clothing, and tie up long hair.
- Keep knees slightly bent in a state of readiness as in an athletic activity.
- Don't work when tired or upset.
- Never enter the shop after drinking alcohol or taking drugs.
- Do not use a power tool from a precarious or off-balance position.
- If you find that you are frustrated with the work - take a break.
6. Be prepared for emergencies. Avoid working alone. Know where to find the first aid kit and how to use its contents.
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