Safety Tips When Using a Bandsaw
There is a lot of research on the Internet regarding bandsaws and bandsaw safety. Most research shows that the bandsaw is the safety woodworking tool on the market. This is due to the many safety features that are incorporated into most bandsaws. However, like all tools, if not used properly, a catastrophic accident could occur. Bandsaw safety is not something that should be taken lightly. Trauma, eye injury, finger amputation, or you could even put your life in danger if you are not careful when using this tool. Thankfully, if you follow these simple bandsaw safety tips you should have no issues operating the tool safely.
Safety Precautions
Cleanliness
When working with any woodworking tools your work area should be kept clean. Catastrophic accidents occur in dirty work areas. Be sure to keep scraps in the trash, dust in a vacuum, tools on the shelf, and wires out of the way.
Clothing
Tight fitted clothing should be worn when using power tools at all times. This is especially true for saws and other cutting tools. Loose fitting clothing can easily be pulled or grabbed by a saw blade and be sucked in rather quickly. Gloves should be tight and form fitting as well. These gloves are perfect for woodworking in my experience.Another safety feature that should be worn is safety glasses. When cutting metal or wood, you often have sawdust or debris flying from the material. This material can cause eye damage or possible blindness. Therefore, safety glasses should be worn at all times.
Guards
All bandsaw guards should be kept intact and have the proper length during operation. Guards are a barrier between the blade, the material, and your fingers. If a finger gets too close to the blade, there is a guard there to protect you. Often times a guard should be placed between an eighth-inch to a quarter-inch away from the blade. This will keep your cuts smooth and your hands safe during operation.
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Material
All material that you are planning on cutting with your band saw should lay flat on the table. This will keep the material sturdy and cuts smooth. If you attempt to cut material by holding it, the blade can grab the material and catch your hand in the quick, rapid cutting motion. Without a miter gauge, no rounded material should be cut due to the blade rolling up on the material and cause danger.
Proper hand position
Hands should always be positioned at least 3 inches away from your bandsaw blade at all times. With one hand on both sides of the material that you are cutting, you will have accurate control over the stock and still be within safe operating distance. Your hand should never be in the line of cutting, no matter if it is within 3 inches from the blade or not. If further assistance is needed to get stuck into the blade that is closer than 3 inches, it is recommended that you use a push stick.
Shut off times
The bandsaw should always be shut off after every use. A band saw should never be left unattended while turned on. Be sure to keep the on-off switch clean of other obstructions and easily accessible. It is often a good sense of safety to unplug the tool when you are done using it for the time being.
Distractions
When using a bandsaw, distractions should be kept to a minimum. Your full attention should be on the piece of machinery that you are operating and not anyone else that is trying to interrupt you. Do not divert your attention to anyone or anything else until the tool is shut off and safe. The slightest gesture of looking away could cause you to lose a finger or make you miscut your piece. It is likely that you will often have people around you that may be trying to interrupt you, therefore, this is the safety measure that requires the greatest discipline. Inform the individual asking for your attention that you are busy and that you will address them when you finish the cut and the machinery is switched off.
Cutting precautions
When cutting large pieces of lumber often times you need to cut off small pieces. These pieces should never be pushed away by hand or with your fingers. During these times it is good practice to also use your push stick. This will get the material out of the way and also keep fingers safe. Another common misconception is hair length. If you have hair past your shoulders it is common practice to keep your hair up and out of the way. Hair can get caught into the saw just like loose fitting clothing.
Conclusion
If you often use a bandsaw, these steps of safety precautions should be practiced each and every time that you operate the tool. This will keep you safe and able to avoid all accidents you are prone to encounter.
