BAND SAW SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
1. Proper eye protection must be worn when using the Band Saw.
EXPLANATION: This protects the eyes from danger created by flying particles and accidental moves by others.
2. Get permission from the teacher each time before using the band saw.
EXPLANATION: This creates order and keeps unqualified students from operating power tools
3. Make sure only the operator is in the safety zone.
EXPLANATION: This gives the operator the proper amount of room room to
work without physical contact by others. It removes the possibility of
an accidental bump or distraction by another person.
4. Make sure the proper width saw blade is on the machine for your particular job.
EXPLANATION: If the blade twists when following a curse, the saw is
too wide for that curve. Either use a narrower saw or make
relief cuts first.
5. Check to see that all guards are in place.
EXPLANATION: Guards are provided for the operator’s safety and must be used.
6. Only Wood with at least one flat surface may be cut on the band saw, unless you use a special holder.
EXPLANATION: The flat surface must be placed on the table during the
sawing operation. This supports the work against the downward thrust of
the band saw. Unless a special jig is used, round or irregular stock can
turn and jam itself into the saw causing the blade to break.
7. Plan sawing procedures so that there is a minimum of backing out of cuts.
EXPLANATION: Any pulling pressure on the back of the band saw blade
may pull it out of the guides. This is a very dangerous situation. For
any cut longer than 2 inches, stop the machine before backing out.
8. Never stand at the right side of the saw.
EXPLANATION: Since the blade travels clockwise, it can, when broken,
fly out of the machine to the right, endangering anyone standing there.
9. Do not cut until saw has reached full speed. Also, do not cut after the power has been shut off.
EXPLANATION: Cutting at less than full speed will place a strain on the blade and increase the chances of breakage.
10. Before starting the saw, set the upper saw guide ¼ inch or less
above the wood. Always plan work to keep this saw guide as low as
possible with ¼ inch clearance.
EXPLANATION: Never adjust the guide while the saw is running, as there
is danger of cutting the hands while making this adjustment. Failure to
set the guide close to work will cause undo strain on the blade.
11. Make adjustments only when the machine is at a complete stop.
EXPLANATION: This insures safety of the operator and can avoid damaging the machine.
12. Keep your fingers out of the path and at least 2 inches away from the blade.
EXPLANATION: In case of a slip there is less danger of being cut if the hands or fingers are not in line with the saw blade.
13. Learn to use finger tip control of the wood.
EXPLANATION: There is less chance of an accident if the operator is on balance and not forcing the work.
14. Keep waste from accumulating on the saw table. Stop the machine
before clearing scraps; clean table with a brush or remove with hands.
EXPLANATION: Scraps can become lodged between the blade and the table
insert making it impossible to saw. Thus a clean table is necessary to
an efficient operation.
15. Step away immediately if the saw blade breaks or comes off.
EXPLANATION: This will remove the operator from danger. If after
studying the situation the power can be shut off without endangering
yourself, then do so. Notify the teacher immediately.
16. After using the band saw, turn off power and stand by until it
has reached a complete stop. Clean up and return machine to normal
operating position.
EXPLANATION: Good housekeeping and safe procedures will help avoid accidents.
REFERENCES: Pictures and more information on band saws can be obtained from these books.
General Woodworking, by Groneman, pp 165-167.
Exploring Woodworking, by Zimmerman, pp 38-40.
Cabinetmaking and Millwork, by Feirer, pp 337-351.
Advanced Woodwork and Furniture Making, by Feirer and Hutchings, pp 321-332.
