Safety Rules and Certifications

Key Safety Rules:

General:

Woodworking can be a dangerous hobby, especially when using power tools. By following a few common-sense rules, you can decrease the risk of injury. Develop the habit of using the following pieces of safety equipment from the start, and you'll never want to work without them.

Safety Glasses:

Safety Glasses are the most important piece of safety equipment. There are many styles of safety glasses, but all share the same features, namely impact resistant lenses and side screens to protect the eyes against flying dust and debris generated by power tools.

Face Shield:

When using a wood lathe, please wear a clear full-face shield to protect from flying chips or tools. The shield is comfortable, can be flipped up when not needed, and should be dropped down prior to starting the lathe. The shield can be used over your prescription spectacles.

Hearing Protection:

When working with high speed power tools such as saws, routers, surface planers and joiners, it is essential to wear hearing protection. Loud impact noise, such as that caused by hammering, is also very dangerous to hearing. Two types commonly used hearing protectors are: ear-muffs and expanding foam ear-plugs. Ear-muffs tend to provide better protection, but can be cumbersome and hot. Earplugs are just as good if fitted properly into the ear canal. Everyone in the room should use hearing protection during noisy activities. Consistent use of hearing protection will minimise long-term hearing loss and will prevent further work-related existing hearing loss.

Respirators and Face Masks:

Sanders, routers and other power tools can generate a lot of dust. Safety glasses and a dust-mask should be worn during dusty operations. When spraying varnish or paint, do so outside or in a well-ventilated area, or use a respirator to protect against the harmful effects of chemicals.

Proper clothing:

When working with power tools, you should always wear proper work clothes. As such, you should never wear a neck-tie or loose garments, because they can become entangled in a power tool and draw you into the rotating component. Comfortable, long-sleeved shirts and long pants are recommended. Sturdy shoes or boots with steel-toes provide a useful layer of protection. Use of a shop apron is advisable, particularly when using a wood lathe.

Jim Duggan, Shed Foreman

Work Method Statement

To cover all Hand Power Tools plus fixed Machines

• 1. Do not use any machine or power tool unless you have been instructed in its safe use and operation (Have been signed off by instructors).

  2. Check your space is clear.

  3. Check all safety guards are working and in position.

  4. Check position of On/Off switch plus emergency stop.

  5. Ensure all locks etc. are in position and tightened.

  6. Ensure table and work area are clear.

  7. If dust extraction is fitted, startup.

  8. Faulty equipment must not be used. Report immediately and tag “Do not use”.

  9. Do not cut free hand on fixed machine without jigs and stops.

  10. Allow machine to come to full speed before cutting.

  11. Use push stick on wood saw and router table.

  12. Remove all off cuts and saw dust after machine is turned off.

  13. Never leave the running unattended.

  14. Remove rip fence etc. when using mitre gauge.

  15. Make sure someone support the cut piece.

  16. Switch off machine when finished.

  17. Leave machine in in safe and clean state.

  18. Be aware timber may catch or jam and kick back.

  19. Wear eye and hearing protection.

  20. Do not cut irregular stock unless under instruction

Jim Duggan: Shop Foreman

Certifications:

Here is our list of who can operate which equipment.

Reference sites:

• Safety Footwear

• How NOT to be SAFE...