Saws present a significant risk for injury when not used properly. The tips below will help to reduce the
potential for a workplace accident when using saws in the workplace.
Band saws
• All portions of band saw blades must be enclosed or guarded, except for the working portion of the
blade between the bottom of the guide rolls and the table
• Band saw wheels must be fully-encased
Portable Circular saws
• Portable, power-driven circular saws must be equipped with guards above and below the base plate or
shoe
• The lower guard must cover the saw to the depth of the teeth, except for the minimum arc required to
allow proper retraction and contact with the work, and automatically return to the covering position
when the blade is removed from the work
Radial saws
• Radial saws must have an upper guard that completely encloses the upper half of the saw blade
• The sides of the lower exposed portion of the blade must be guarded by a device that will automatically
adjust to the thickness of and remain in contact with the material being cut
• Radial saws used for ripping must have non-kickback fingers
• Radial saws must be installed so that the cutting head will return to the starting position when released
by the operator
Circular saws
• Circular table saws must have a hood over the portion of the saw above the table
• Feeder attachments shall have the feed rolls or other moving parts covered or guarded so
as to protect the operator from hazardous points
• Never remove or wedge safety guards
