Miter Saws

• Also known as chop saws

• Used for straight and angle cuts in timber and metal

• Used in framing and finished carpentry

Parts of the Miter Saw• Fence

• Guard

• Blade

• Dust Bag

• Motor

• Trigger

Miter Saw Blades

• Large– 10”, 12” and 14” sizes

• Material specificIdeal for Ceramic Tile, Porcelain, and Slate

Cuts wood and plastic

Cuts Metal

Safety Concerns

• Zero miter saw related deaths

• Hand and finger cuts

• Approximately 52,000 people nationwide injured by stationary power saws in 2001

• 83% of injuries to fingers

• 5% result in hospitalization

Statistics not chop saw exclusivehttp://www.cpsc.gov/LIBRARY/FOIA/FOIA03/os/powersaw.pdf

Safety Concerns

• 98% of injuries occur to operator

• Other injuries include matter in eyes, ear injuries, and flying objects

• Awkwardness for left handed operators can result in injury

Safe Work Practices

• Work at a comfortable level

• Bolt to work bench to ensure stable and level working platform

• Do not use saw on the floor

• Do not cut small pieces as they may catch in blade

• Keep cords clear as they may

be a tripping hazard

Safe Work Practices

• Operators should always wear safety glasses under a full face shield.

• Gloves, loose clothing, jewelry, or any dangling objects including long hair should not be worn as they may catch in the rotating parts of the saw.

Safe Work Practices

• Use only the recommended RPM and sizes of blades.

• Regularly check and tighten the blade and the blade-attachment mechanism.

• Use ring test for blade continuity– If it rings clear then blade is free of cracks

Safe Work Practices

• All guards must be in place and operating. • Unplug power when making repairs. • Clean the lower guard frequently to help

visibility and movement.

Safe Work Practices

• Check cutting stock for nails and impurities– Nails may damage blade– Impurities may cause stock to splinter or shatter

• Always wear proper ear protection,

Safe Work Practices

• Hold or clamp all material securely against the fence when cutting.

• Do not perform operations freehand. • Long material should be supported at the

same height as the saw table. • Never place hands or fingers in the path of

the blade or reach in back of the fence.

Safe Work Practices

• NEVER CROSS HANDS!!!

• Do not hold short end of cutting stock

• Reset miter if the angle requires

Final Tips

• Know your equipment

• Wear proper protection

• Keep hands clear

References

• For more online safety tips visit www.tru.ca/hsafety/workinglearningsafely/work/chopsaw.html

• Video: www.expertvillage.com/videos/chop-saw-beginner-safety-tips.htm