Woodworking Machines – Mitre Saws Fact Sheets

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO BEFORE USING A MITRE SAW?

Mitre saws can be dangerous if not used properly.

Read the owner’s manual carefully.
Make sure you know and understand the instructions before attempting to use any tool or machine.
Learn the applications and limitations before use.

WHAT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS SHOULD YOU FOLLOW WHEN USING A MITRE SAW?

Wear safety glasses or goggles, or a face shield (with safety glasses or goggles).
If work is dusty, use a dust extraction system, and/or respirator or dust mask.
Wear appropriate hearing protection.
Wear protective footwear when required.
Attach the saw firmly on a workbench or other rigid frame and operate saw at waist height. The saw can also be taken to remote locations by mounting it on a piece of plywood 13 mm (1/2 in.) or thicker. This plywood (and saw) must be clamped to a waist high work surface on the job site with large “C” clamps.
Make sure any adjustments are secure before making a cut. Only make adjustments when the power is off and the machine is not moving.
Keep one hand on the trigger switch and handle and use the other hand to hold the stock against the fence.
Keep hands out of the path of the blade.
Keep guards in place and in working order.
Remove adjusting keys and wrenches.
Use a crosscut or combination blade.
Ensure that the blade rotates in the correct direction.
Ensure that the blade and arbor collars are secure and clean. Recessed sides of collars should be against blade.
Keep blade tight, clean, sharp and properly set so that it cuts freely and easily.
Only cut one work piece at a time
Allow motor to reach full speed before cutting
Wait for the saw to stop moving before removing the work.
Follow instructions for lubricating and changing accessories.
Keep the work area clean. Cluttered areas and benches invite incidents.
Keep the work area well lit.
Reduce the risk of unintentional startup. Make sure saw switch is in OFF position before plugging in.
Unplug tools before servicing and when not in use.
Check for damage. Repair or replace damaged parts.
Keep motor air slots clean and free of dust and chips.
Use only the accessories designed for the specific saw and job.

Mitre saw

WHAT SHOULD YOU AVOID WHEN USING A MITRE SAW?

Do not operate the saw when placed on the ground.
Do not cut pieces smaller than 20 cm (8 in.) in length.
Do not cut stock that has loose knots, splits, defects or foreign objects (e.g., metal stone) in it. Do not cut solid timber along the grain.
Do not cut “free hand.” The stock should lie solidly on the table against the fence.
Do not reach around or behind the saw blade.
Do not take your hand away from the trigger switch and handle until the blade is fully covered by the lower blade guard.
Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times.
Do not force the saw. The saw cuts better and more safely at the rate for which it was designed.
Do not leave the saw until it has stopped completely. Turn the power off and unplug the saw.
Do not use electric tools in damp or wet locations.
Do not operate electric tools near flammable liquids or in gaseous or explosive atmospheres. Sparks may ignite fumes.