| Purpose |
To establish safe work practices for the use of mitre saws in residential construction, reducing the risk of injuries and ensuring safe operation. |
| Definition |
A stationary, powered saw with a circular blade mounted on a pivoting arm, used for making precise crosscuts, mitres, bevels, and compound cuts in wood and similar materials. |
| Hazards
This list of potential hazards is not comprehensive. Workers are required to complete a Hazard Assessment prior to starting this task to ensure all hazards are identified and controlled.
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Physical:
- Cuts/Lacerations
- Amputation – contact with blade or kickback
- Electric shock
- Flying debris
- Strain/Sprain
- Respiratory issues
- Entanglement of hair, loose or dangling clothing or jewelery.
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| Controls |
Engineering:
- Blade guard
- 3-prong grounded cord
- Clamps
- Proper material support
- Stable Mitre Saw support
Administrative:
- Training
- Pre-use inspection
- Cord management
Personal Protective Equipment:
- Task-Specific PPE: Safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, dusk mask or respirator (if cutting materials producing dust.)
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| Work Site Supervisory Responsibility |
Do
- Ensure that Workers are trained in the use of this equipment.
- During inspections, ensure all guards, cords and blades are in safe working condition.
- Ensure the saw is installed on a stable work surface/support.
- Ensure defective equipment is tagged and removed from use.
- Enforce the use of PPE during cutting operations.
- Verify Workers maintain good housekeeping and ensure good lighting in the work area.
Do not
- Assign an untrained Worker to use this tool.
- Allow Workers to use saws with defective guards, blades or cords.
- Allow cutting in wet or unsafe conditions.
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| Worker Responsibility |
Do
- Inspect the equipment for any equipment damage or excessive wear and tear. If deficiencies are found, immediately report the deficiency and remove from use.
- Wear all required PPE, eye and hearing protection at a minimum.
- Ensure the saw is firmly and securely mounted on a table, stand, or on firm level ground surface. Ensure extra support for any long work pieces.
- Tighten adjustment knobs before using the saw.
- Check the blade before operating to make sure it is in a safe condition and that it has been installed properly.
- Ensure all guards are in place before the saw is plugged in and remains in place during operation.
- Remove any tools or metal parts from immediate area. Remove nails from wood before cutting.
- Keep the work area clean, remove any debris that may present a tripping hazard.
- Hold work piece firm on platform and against fence with one hand. Ensure your hand is safely away from the blade.
- Let the tool do the job.
- Ensure the saw is unplugged before making any adjustments.
- Before cutting, check the stock for foreign objects or any other obstruction which could cause the saw to “kick back”, such as nails or screws.
Do not
- Force the material or blade while cutting.
- Modify or remove the guard.
- Reach around or behind the saw blade, always keep proper footing and balance.
- Use a mitre saw to cut ferrous metals.
- Use the saw in a damp or wet location.
- Wear jewelry, loose-fitting clothing, or unsecured long hair, which can get caught in the saw.
- Make any adjustments or blade changes while the saw is energized.
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