Safe use of circular saw and cut-off saw
The screen, push stick and the cutting machines that cost the most fingers
The cutting wood machines are the carpenter's most important tools — and at the same time the ones that cause the most serious accidents. Accidents with circular saws routers and cut-off saws often result in cutting injuries or amputations of fingers hands and arms. It is rarely an accident that could not have been avoided: a missing guard a hand too close to the blade or a moment's inattention are the typical causes.
§Screens and guards
Protective screens are on the machine for a reason and must always be installed and working. On the table saw the blade screen and riving knife must be in place — the riving knife prevents the workpiece from jamming on the blade and being thrown back at the operator. Removing a screen to work faster is among the most dangerous habits you can develop.
§Instruction and training
No one may operate heavy machinery without instruction. This applies to both correct use of the machine and what to do if something goes wrong. Is all equipment serviced and approved, are guards in place, and has everyone on site received the necessary instruction? These are questions the employer must be able to answer yes to before work begins.
§Dust and extraction
When using table saws and cut-off saws, suitable process extraction must be installed so wood dust is removed at source. If the dust is not removed effectively, suitable respiratory protection must be used. The extraction protects not only against dust — it also keeps the work area free from sawdust so you can see what you are doing and avoid slipping.
§Personal protective equipment
- 01Hearing protection — necessary with circular saws drills and other noisy machine work
- 02Safety shoes with toe cap — protects if you drop heavy material or tools
- 03Dust mask — important when grinding and when working with pressure-treated wood
- 04Safety glasses — when working where chips or splinters can be thrown
- 05Gloves — against cuts and splinters, but never with rotating machines where they can be caught
| Machine and breaks | Most important safety |
|---|---|
| Table saw | Blade guard, splitting knife, push stick, suction |
| Afkorter/kap-geringssav | Blade guard, hold workpiece, keep hands at safe distance |
| Overhead router/table router | Shielding, guide tool, no gloves |
| Hand circular saw | Pendulum screen should be able to move freely, correct blade depth |
Routine is both a strength and a pitfall in machine work. The experienced craftsman works quickly and safely, but routine can also tempt you to skip the screen or pusher. The safest craftsmen are those who maintain respect for the machine — even after twenty years at the saw.