BENCH SAWS

BENCH SAWS

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

All woodwork machines must comply with these regulations and other appropriate legislation. Several hundred accidents on different types of woodworking machinery are reported annually to the H.S.E of these 40% occur on circular saws. These can be extremely dangerous in the hands of an untrained person. It is therefore essential that potential users are trained in both the use of the tool and how to safely change the blade. Bench saws can inflict very serious injuries and it is essential that regulations for guarding them are strictly observed. Neglecting or ignoring the regulations governing the use of such machinery creates the conditions in which accidents occur

HAZARDS

• Electric shock
• Shattering of blades
• Injury from flying particles thrown off by the cutting process
• Injuries caused by coming into contact with the revolving blade
• Unsecured machines
• Incorrect/poor lighting

HEALTH AND SAFETY POINTS

• Only authorized trained persons appointed in writing may use a bench saw
• Always wear goggles, ear protectors, dust masks and other protective equipment where required
• Consider your surrounding area carefully before commencing ensuring that the bench saw is suitably fenced off
• Are the start and stop controls situated so that they can be easily reached and operated
• Ensure the machine is level and securely fixed to ensure its stability
• Are all cutters guarded to the greatest extent practicable
• Always keep guards in place and ensure correct adjustment
• Ensure the machine of sound construction and properly maintained and part of maintenance scheme
• Keep fingers aways from the cutting edge use push sticks/push blocks
• Are all floors level, in good repair and free from loose material and not slippery (housekeeping)
• Is the saw blade in good condition, sharp with no cracks, and not less than the smallest diameter permitted
• Is a notice fixed to machines, specifying the smallest permitted blade diameter
• Is the top of the blade guard (crown guard) sound and easily adjustable?
• Has a COSHH assessment been undertaken
• Where there is no matural ventilation an extraction system must be in place

QUSTIONS

• Who may operate the bench saw?
• Why should you use push sticks/push blocks?
• What PPE should you wear?

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SAFETY REMINDER

Remember circular saws are potentially one of the most dangerous machines used in industry and are responsible for amputating hundreds of fingers every year. Push sticks must be used.