Band Saw Safety Meeting Kit

INTRODUCTION

Band saws use a powered and rotating continuous metal blade to make even and precise cuts on metal, wood, and other objects. Because the moving blade has cutting teeth, serious injury and even death can occur if you use a band saw incorrectly.

BAND SAW SAFETY RULES

Be Familiar with Basic Band Saw Safety: Before starting work with a band-saw, the first step is to read and understand the procedures for running it safely. Whether it be vertical band saw, horizontal or battery powered band saw, you should always read the user manual and understand safe work practices prior to beginning the task.
PPE and Safety Precautions for Operators: Your fingers, hands, eyes and ears are considered to be at risk when operating a bandsaw. Wear goggles to protect your eyes from sawdust and flying debris. Use ear protection to protect from excessive noise. Avoid wearing loose-fitting or long-sleeve clothes. Tie back long hair to ensure it doesn’t get caught in the blade.
Machine Setup: Ensure the bandsaw is set on a flat and stable surface to minimize movement and vibrations during use. Excessive movement can result in a cut accident in the blink of an eye.
Careful Operation: While operating the bandsaw, maintain a minimum of 3 inches distance between your hand/fingers and the blade at all times. Never lean too close to the saw while cutting, and power the machine off while cleaning the work surface.
Blade Maintenance: Change the blade on the bandsaw often. Worn blades can snap without warning during use, creating a serious safety hazard for an operator’s eyes, hands and fingers.

BEST BAND SAW SAFETY PRACTICES

Make sure all guards are in place and properly adjusted.
Make sure all band wheels are enclosed.
Make sure the wheels and blade are in good condition.
Make sure the blade is positioned properly on the track.
Adjust blade guard height to about 3 mm or 1/8 inch to 6mm or 1/4 inch above the top of the material being cut. Wider gaps will place tension on the blade and increase the risk of breaking.
Ensure the blade is tracking correctly and runs freely in and against the upper and lower guide rollers.
Ensure the blade is under proper tension.
Hold stock firmly to prevent the stock from turning and drawing your fingers against the blade.
Use a push stick when you remove cut pieces from between the fence and saw blade or when your hands are close to the blade. Keep your hands on either side of the blade
Make release (relief) cuts before tight curves when doing intricate scroll-type work.
If you need to stop cutting, hold the material firmly and shut down the saw.
Keep the floor around a band saw clean and free of obstructions or clutter.
Keep the machine properly oiled and serviced.
Provide adequate lighting at the machine table.
If maintaining or making repairs, use lockout procedures where necessary.
Always turn the bandsaw off after use.

FINAL WORD

Band saws use a powered and rotating metal blade to make even and precise cuts on metal, wood, and other objects. Serious injuries and death can occur if a band saw is used incorrectly.