Cal Poly Code of Safe Practice
Woodworking Band Saw Safety
These safety practices shall be followed where a hazard exists to employees from use of a band saw for woodworking.
Woodworking Band Saw Safety Procedures
- Only operators trained in the safe operation of a band saw are allowed to use the saw.
- The operator should check the following points before operating the band saw:
- Operator must wear safety glasses
- If the material chips severely, a face shield should be used in addition to safety glasses
- Blade should be checked for tightness
- Verify location of off switch and/or emergency power disconnect
- Ensure that the table is clear of materials, tools, and debris
- All portions of the saw blade must be enclosed or guarded except the portion between the bottom of the guide rolls and the table.
- The blade guard should be kept adjusted as close as possible to the table without interfering with movement of the stock.
- The down travel guard from the upper wheel to the guide rolls shall be so adjusted that the blade will travel within the angle or channel.
- The wheels of the band saw (upper and lower) must be fully enclosed.
- A blade tension control device with an indicator must be present on all band saws.
- Band saws must not be run at speeds in excess of the manufacturer's recommended speed.
- When changing the blade or servicing the saw, the power disconnect must be locked in the "off" position. For saws with a cord and plug, the saw must be unplugged. The saw must be tested after disconnecting power and before beginning service.
Questions or comments regarding this page should be e-mailed to David Ragsdale, Environmental Health & Safety Manager, Cal Poly Risk Management.
This page last updated October 26, 1998