Introduction

No one can deny that powered saw equipment is marvelous machinery. It saves time, effort, and allows materials to be cut and processed precisely in a fraction of the time than manual saws. Powered saws are also some of the most dangerous pieces of equipment used in any industry. In a split second can change your life forever.

It’s important that you recognize the power and destructive capabilities of the equipment you work with. The goal of this program is not to scare you. After all hundreds of thousands of people work safely with saws every day, however there are many cases each year where someone loses a finger, hand, or their eye, or even worse their life, because they failed to follow safety procedures, or decided to take a short cut. The choice is really up to you. If you choose to follow procedures and use your common sense and good judgment odds are you won’t experience an injury. But if you choose to not pay attention or take short cuts sooner or later you will. Make the right choice.

Personal Protective Equipment

Let’s begin with PPE, or personal protective equipment. Your employer provides you with everything you need to work safely, but it’s your responsibility to wear it when its required. Safety glasses sitting on the work bench can’t protect your eyes. Anytime you use a power saw eye protection must be used. No exceptions. A simple pair of safety glasses can mean the difference between just another day at work, and a life time disability. Think about it. You should also wear leather top steel-toed work boots. If a piece of wood falls off the table a good pair of shoes can prevent a painful injury.

Gloves are useful for some tasks but should never be worn when working around saws. Gloves can be caught in the saw and drag your hand and arm into the cutting path. Saws create a lot of noise so hearing protection is required. Wear it, you’ll be glad you did. Long sleeves should be worn up past the elbow. This prevents the material from getting caught in the moving parts of the saw. Long hair can also get caught in the blade and pull your entire face and head into the cutting path. If you have long hair tie it back before using the saw. Before working with any saw, inspect it. You’re the only person who can determine if the equipment is safe to use. If you find a hazard do not use the saw. Notify your supervisor immediately so corrective action or repairs can be taken.