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Cal Poly Code of Safe Practice

Radial Arm Saw Safety

 

 

These safety practices shall be followed where a hazard exists to employees from use of a radial arm saw.

 

 

Radial Arm Saw Safety Procedures

  • Only operators trained in the safe operation of a radial arm saw are allowed to use the saw.
  • The operator should check the following points before operating the radial arm 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
  • Ensure the guard is in place that covers the top of the blade and the blade arbor ends
  • Verify location of off switch and/or emergency power disconnect
  • Ensure that the table is clear of materials, tools, and debris
  • If the saw is used for ripping, ensure that an anti-kickback device is installed and operating properly.
  • If the saw is used for ripping, the wood must be fed against the direction in which the saw blade turns, and the direction of the saw rotation must be clearly marked on the blade hood.
  • If the saw is used for ripping, a permanent label at least 1-1/2 inches by 3/4 inch must be affixed to both sides of the rear of the blade hood at approximately the level of the arbor, rading as follows: DO NOT RIP FROM THIS END, or equivalent wording.
  • The saw must have a limit chain or other positive stop to prevent the blade from traveling beyond the front of the table.
  • The saw must have a device installed which will return the saw automatically to the back of the table when released at any point of its travel. This device must also prevent the saw from rebounding after it returns. As an alternative, the front of the table may be raised to a height that will cause the saw to return to the rear of the table without rebounding.
  • 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.

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This page last updated October 26, 1998