TOOL SAFETY AND OPERATION
- Wear proper personal protection equipment. Safety glasses or face shield are required. Wear hearing protection that is appropriate for the level and duration of the noise in the tool room. A dust mask is recommended. Do not wear gloves.
- Wear proper apparel. No loose fitting cloths or neckties. No loose jewelry. Long hair must be covered or tied back. Non-slip footwear is recommended.
- Keep the work area clean. Cluttered areas and benches invite accidents.
- Disconnect power supply before adjusting or changing the blade.
- Check the saw blade for proper installation.
- Check the retracting lower blade guard frequently to make certain it works freely. It should enclose the teeth as completely as possible, and cover the unused portion of the blade when cutting.
- After making a cut, check that the retracting lower blade guard has returned to its starting position before putting down the saw.
- Do not hold or force the retracting lower guard into the open position.
- Set the depth of the blade while the saw is unplugged. Lock the depth of cut so that the lowest tooth does not extend more than 1/4" beneath the wood being cut. Keep all cords clear of cutting area.
- Before cutting, check the material for obstructions or other objects such as nails or screws.
- Secure stock being cut to avoid movement.
- Make sure the stock is supported in a manner that will not cause the material to pinch the blade after it is cut.
- Make sure that the blade is not in contact with the material when starting the power.
- Allow the saw blade to reach full speed before starting to cut.
- Do not force the saw during cutting.
- Use two hands to operate the saw. Keep one hand on the trigger switch and the other on the front knob handle.
- Do not overreach. Always keep proper footing and balance.
- Never move the saw backwards while the blade is in motion.
- Do not attempt to make curved cuts with the circular saw.
- Avoid unintentional starting; do not carry the saw with a finger on the trigger switch.
- Because most circular saws are designed for right-hand operation, left-handed operations will demand more care to operate safely.
Download PDF: Circular Saw Safety Sheet