Saws & Potential Safeguards

Saws can be hazardous because they are essentially just blades, whether the motion is rotating or back and forth, and whether the force comes from a machine or manpower. It is important for the employee to take precautions such as avoiding loose or hanging clothing, jewelry, or other accessories in danger of being caught by the sawblade or other hazardous machine part. This section discusses some examples of common saws and the safeguards that can be used to prevent injury when working with these tools.

Table Saws

A table saw is a circular saw that is mounted under a table or bench so that the blade projects up through a slot. Table saws have hazards and potential safeguards that we will discuss.

• Point of Operation
  • Hazard: The portion of the rotating blade above the surface of the table, whether the machine is on or off, can cut the operator or other employees.
  • Potential Safeguards: A self-adjusting guard should be implemented over the sawblade, and a push stick can be utilized to assist in feeding stock.

• Other Moving Parts
  • Hazards: Just as the portion of the blade above the table is a hazard, so is the portion below the work surface. This is also where the power transmission is located.
  • Potential Safeguard: The use of a solid base around the entire portion of the machine below the workspace will prevent access to either hazard mentioned above.

• Kickbacks
  • Hazard: If the saw catches a piece of material during cutting, stock can be thrown back toward the operator.
  • Potential Safeguards: Following the manufacturer's recommendations for operation and maintenance will ensure a sharp blade and less of a chance for kickbacks. In addition, standing to the side of the machine while operating will put the operator out of the direct path of any flying stock. There are also tools such as anti-kickback fingers and spreaders that can be utilized for further protection.

• Flying Particles
  • Hazard: Any time a rotating saw blade is operating, it could fling scrap pieces, chips, or flakes of stock into the air.
  • Potential Safeguards: Regular maintenance is key to ensure a sharp blade, and every worker should wear proper eye and face protection.

To learn more about Machine Guarding visit our Machine Guarding Safety Online Training web page.