Drill Press Safety Rules for Woodworking and Your Woodshop

• Use only drills with straight shanks. Drills with tapered shanks or tangs, such as hand auger bits that are designed for a hand boring brace should not be used.
• Install drills in the chuck to their full depth. Us a chuck key to secure the drill tight. Do not leave the key in the chuck.
• Adjust the table to the proper height and angle. Also make sure the hole in the table is in line with the drill bit. Place a wooden pad on top of the table. This will prevent drilling holes in the metal table, and will also prevent splintering the bottom of your stock when the bit drills through.
• Adjust the speed of the drill press. For small bits or soft woods, higher speeds can be used. When drilling hard woods, or using large diameter bits, a slower speed should be used.
• Always clamp small pieces of wood onto the table. If large bits are used it is also advisable to clamp the stock
• If a drill bit catches in the wood, turn off the drill press and wait until it comes to a complete stop, before attempting to dislodge it.
• Do not force the bit into the wood stock. Always apply a slow, steady pressure.
• If a deep hole is required, withdraw the bit frequently to cool the bit and clear the shavings.
• When operating a drill press always keep your fingers at a safe distance from the drill bit.
• Use a brush to remove shavings from the table.
• Never leave the drill press until it has come to a full stop.

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