Circular Saws

Tools & Equipment

Sep 21

Date Posted: 09/22/2016

Hospital emergency room visits account for approximately 10,600 visits annually due to improper usage of circular saws.

Important Safety Guidelines

Wear PPE (safety glasses and hearing protection).
While operating a saw, keep long hair tied back, do not wear loose clothing or jewelry.
Before the cut, set the depth of the saw to 1/8" thicker than material.
Prepare a stable surface to cut material on. Never cut on your knee.
Never alter a manufacturer’s guard.
Blade guard should move freely to both the open and closed positions.
Never cut with a dull blade.
Always unplug the saw before you replace the blade.
Cut short material from long material first.
Stand to the side when cutting material. This position protects you from any potential kickback.
Hold the saw with two hands; one hand stabilizes the material to prevent the saw from moving and the other hand is on the saw.
After your cut, you can put the saw down.
Support large panels so they will not pinch the blade.
Beware of knots or sap in the wood and never remove the blade from the material while it is cutting.
Keep all electrical cords clear of the cutting path.
Do not twist the saw while cutting to change direction or saw alignment unless the blade is designed for that purpose.
Do not carry portable circular saws with hands or fingers on the trigger switch.
Keep the work area clean and free of debris and scraps to prvent stumbling or tripping.

Pre-read the Toolbox Talk. Your comfort level and confidence will be higher if you know your topic.
Discuss related tasks, work areas or events that make the Toolbox Talk relevant to your job site.
Involve the workers by asking questions and input that drives discussion.