A disc sander consists of an adjustable table with a circular plate that is guarded and mounted to a motor shaft. An abrasive disc is secured to the plate to be used for sanding. These can be common and handy machines in any industry dealing with wood working, however they can pose some risk as well.
Basic safety rules for disc sanders:
- Always wear safety glasses to protect eyes from flying debris and wood particles
- Keep fingers two inches minimum away from the sanding disc when in use
- Hold material firmly and flat against the table as it is worked against the sanding disc
- Only use the downward traveling side of the disc to prevent material from kicking back up
- Use steady and low pressure when working material against the sanding disc
- Avoid distractions, remove material from disc and turn the sander off when done or if there is a need to step away
- Do not use a disc sander if the disc is not in good condition, dull or loose
- The table should be adjusted so that it rests no more than 1/8” from the disc
- Material that is 2” thick or smaller should not be sanded
- The disc sander is to be used for outside curves or angles only
- It should not be used for joinery, squaring stock etc.
- Only adjust the machine once it has been turned off and is at a complete stop