Router (Hand Held) Safety Instructions

1. Safety glasses must be worn when using the electric router.
EXPLANATION: This protects the eyes and face from danger created by flying particles and accidental moves by others.

2. Get permission from the teacher each time before using the electric router.
EXPLANATION: This creates order and keeps unqualified students from operating power tools.

3. Make all router adjustments only when switch is off and power cord is unplugged.
EXPLANATION: An unplugged, switched-off router cannot be accidentally turned on when hands are near the cutter bits.

4. The switch must be in off position before power cord is plugged in.
EXPLANATION: This prevents unexpected power movement on machine.

5. Select the proper bit for your operation and tighten it in place with bit shank at least ½ inch into collet chuck using the proper wrenches.
EXPLANATION: A collet chuck grip on the bit of ½ inch or more will keep the bit from coming loose.

6. Your workpiece of wood must be secured to a workbench with a vise or clamps before routing.
EXPLANATION: A secure workpiece will not move unexpectedly during machine operation.

7. The bit should engage the wood with light cuts against the direction of rotation of the bit, usually from left to right. The bit rotates clockwise as you look down on the router.
EXPLANATION: This enables controlled router operating without overworking the motor.

8. Keep hands, fingers, hair, loose clothing, and power cord away from the router’s cutting edges.
EXPLANATION: This prevents router from cutting part of your body or winding up hair and clothing, which can pull operator into the machine.

9. Ask your teacher to check your self-up before starting the router operation.
EXPLANATION: Your teacher can help you to remember all safety rules BEFORE an accident happens.

10. Practice router set-up on a scrap piece of wood before starting on project work.
EXPLANATION: Getting some extra experience can save you embarrassment and money for starting over with new wood.

11. Avoid others coming in for close observation of you working with the router.  Three feet away is a good, safe distance.
EXPLANATION: They could cause an accident by bumping into you, and also may not have the protection of a faceshield.

12. Hold the router firmly with both hands when power is on.
EXPLANATION: Two hands are necessary for full control.

13. After the cutting operation is completed, turn off switch, hold router until bit stops rotating, and lay the router on its side on the bench.
EXPLANATION: The router bit will cut until it is completely stopped.  Laying the router on its side will keep the bit from being nicked.

14. When finished using the router, unplug it, remove bit, clean machine parts, and put router and attachments in the proper place.
EXPLANATION: Keeping the router clean and all attachments together will help the next operator and maintain the router.

 

REFERENCES: Pictures and more information on portable routers can be obtained from these books:

General Woodworking, by Groneman, pp 207-211.
Exploring Woodworking, by Zinmerman, pp 83-85.
Cabinetmaking and Millwork, by Feirer, pp 394-411.
Advanced Woodwork and Furniture Making, by Feirer and Hutchings, pp 345-354.