Woodworking safety
Working with tools is a fun, rewarding and enjoyable. You hobby can also be very dangerous if you don’t follow the correct safety guidelines. We’ve compiled a list of woodworking safety tips to follow so you have a safe woodworking experience.
The following tips are easy to put in place into your daily routine. They help you avoid the dangers of using power tools that have spinning and sharp blades. Keep reading and use your power tools without getting injured.
Basic Woodworking Safety Rules
Here are some tips that you should follow when doing woodworking projects. Each rule must be followed without expectations.
Only Use Tools That You’re Trained To Use
Ensure you're trained on the correct use of every tool that you need to use. Under no circumstances should you use a tool without having someone teach you how to use it. Use proper tool handling techniques. Familiarize yourself with the tool before you use it.
Running Blades
When the tool's blade is running, you need a firm hold of the tool with both hands. This allows you to target your cutting area and make the right incision.
Never reach across a running blade. You can get distracted and reach for an object without noticing that you’re reaching over a blade. Design your work place layout so that you avoid this situation altogether.
If you find yourself reaching over or near a running blade, stop the work immediately!
Make Sure Your Machines Are Safe Before You Use Them
It's important to know that your machine is safe to use before you start it. First, check the guards and ensure that each is in working condition and in the correct position. Inspect the machine and check all the safety features connected. Confirm they are in good working order before you operate it.
Also, make sure that the machine electrical grounding is in place before using it. Remove all loose tools from the work top and place them out of the way before you turn the power on. Check wooden materials for nails and other attached materials. Do that before you plan on cutting, routing, planing or carrying them.
Use One Extension Cord For Every Machine
Using one extension cord ensures you disconnect a machine’s power before you use the next one. Use a heavy duty extension cord to withstand the power of all power tools and machines.
Having the wrong size extension cord could trigger a fire hazard. Don't have extension cords laying on the ground. That will increase the chance of someone tripping or falling and hurting themselves.
Use The Safety Features!
We cannot explain this enough; the safety features are there to help you. Most power tools have a large assortment of built-in safety features. Don't remove them from your tool after unboxing it; they are there for a reason.
In fact, you can add safety features on your tools for added protection. Prevent machine kickback by keeping the device on the stock when making cuts.
Recommended Safety Equipment
Safety Eyewear
Safety glasses are the most important protection you need for woodworking. There are various styles of safety goggles. They each do the same task: they protect your eyes from debris and wood splinters.
Facemasks And Respirators
Routers, sanders, and other power tools create a lot of dust when in use. Wear a dust mask when using these machines to prevent particles from entering your lungs. When painting or spraying varnish, use a respirator. A respirator will help prevent toxic chemicals from entering your body.
Clothing
Your clothing determines how you'll perform and work throughout your woodworking projects. Wear comfortable steel-toed boots for foot cover. Wearing a tight fitting shirt will provide an extra layer of protection.
Loose fitting clothes can get caught in the power tool while it's operating. When using machines such as a lathe, wear a shop apron to prevent any sparks from reaching your body.
Face Shields
If possible, use a face shield. They add eye protection and save your face from chemicals, splinters or sparks. wooden chunks from reaching your face. Don’t operate any power tool until you put on a pair of safety goggles.
Woodworking Safety Gloves
When you select a pair of woodworking gloves, check the material quality.
Don’t try to work on any task if your gloves are uncomfortable. Make sure that you get a glove’s sizing for your hand size and material that suit the work task. The wrong sizing can be a hazard itself. Loose gloves can cause you to drop large pieces of wood. Loose gloves can get caught in the woodworking machine that you're using. Check each glove's fit and make sure that it stays feels tight on your hand before starting work on any machine.
The most common glove materials are canvas, metal mesh, and leather. Use gloves made from synthetic materials to protect you from light cuts. Use the correct type of gloves when doing intensive cutting projects.
Conclusion
Practice woodworking safety while woodworking; it's more important than the project itself. Too many woodworkers injure themselves by not being safe; not protecting themselves. Keep these safety tips in mind when working. Ensure that you stay safe to be there to complete the project.
