Like lawnmowers and snowblowers, power saws are extremely useful tools.  However, they also can cause severe damage to the hands.  The severity of the injury depends on what is damaged in the hand and on certain characteristics of the saw. Because the treatment and rehabilitation of these injuries is extensive, they obviously are best avoided.  Here are a few tips on preventing saw injuries:

 

Follow the safety instructions provided for your saw and use it only for projects for which it was designed.

Use the correct blade at the correct depth for what you are doing.  Also, use a sharp blade to prevent stalling and kickback.  Check blade guard operation before use.  Lower the blade of a table saw when finished with the project.

 

Let the saw reach full speed before starting and support the work so that it won’t shift.  Secure metal with a clamp or vise.

Switch off the power and unplug the saw if it stalls before trying to restart it.

Make sure that the work is not touching the blade when starting or stopping the saw.

Keep your finger off the trigger when carrying a portable saw.

Do not override safety guards; they are there for safety!

Stay focused and keep your eyes on your work.

Use a long stick instead of your hands to clear scraps away from the table.

Do not wear jewelry or loose clothing that can be caught by the blade.

DO NOT DRINK ALCOHOL before or while using a power saw.

 

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