Band Saw Safety Rules for Woodworking and Your Woodshop

Adjust the upper blade guide so it is ¼" above the wood. If the guide is too high the blade will not be supported properly .Be sure the blade has been properly installed, and the tension is adjusted. Also, the blade teeth should be pointing down. Check the owner's manual for the manufacturer and saw size. Allow the saw to reach maximum speed before engaging wood. Keep hands and fingers at least 2" away from the blade. Never place them in line with the blade. When cutting small pieces of stock, use push sticks so all body parts are out of harm's way. Place the wood flat on the table and gently force wood into the blade Avoid backing out of long irregular curves. This could pull the blade off the wheels. If it is necessary, first turn off the saw before attempting to do so Do not cut a radius so small that the blade is twisted. This could break the blade and cause serious injury. Make relief cuts so that wood is removed and allows for the blade to cut the radius and without twisting the blade. Never allow anyone to stand on the right side of the band saw. If the blade broke, this is the most likely direction it would go. If the blade breaks, immediately turn off the power and step away from the saw. If a clicking sound is heard while the wood is being cut, immediately turn off the power. This is usually a signal that the blade has a crack. Never attempt to cut cylindrical stock by holding it with your hands. Secure it first in a hand screw clamp and then attempt the cut. When finished, turn off the machine and apply the brake. Do not leave the band saw until it has come to a full stop.

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