Safe Operating Procedures for Circular Saws
Purpose
To define the safe operating procedures in a manner that informs and instructs employees of [Employer/Organization Name] of the key health and safety hazards and controls to remember when using the circular saw.
Hazards
The following hazards may occur when using the circular saw:
Cuts
Eye injury
Hearing damage
Musculoskeletal disorder
Electric shock
Fire (refuelling or fuel leak)
Wood dust
Personal Protective Equipment
Safety footwear
Eye protection
Hearing protection
Respiratory protection as required
No loose clothing, jewelry or hair
Safe Operating Procedure
Complete a pre-use inspection. If any defects are noted, the equipment must be removed from service and the supervisor must be notified immediately to ensure equipment is repaired.
Operators must have read and understood the operator’s manual.
Ensure operator’s manual for equipment is available to operators.
Ensure guards and shields are firmly in place and in good condition. Do not operate the equipment without appropriate guards, shields, plates and other safety protective devices in place.
Ensure safety decals are legible, order replacements if they are not.
Ensure the equipment is used properly as per manufacturer’s directions.
Saws must have 3-wire (grounding) cord and plug, unless they are double insulated.
Saw to have Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) guard in place and functional where applicable.
Accessories can only be used that are designed for use with the saw specified.
Saw blades must be designed for the product being cut and at the rated speed.
Saws are to be used for the manufacturer’s designed purpose only.
Ensure all cords are clear of the cutting area before starting to cut.
Before cutting, check the stock for foreign objects or any other obstruction which could cause the saw to kick back.
Test the on/off switch and brake.
When cutting, make sure the stock is held securely in place on a work bench, saw horses, or other solid surface (do not use your knee). Use a wedge to keep the stock from closing and causing the saw to bind.
Both hands must be used to hold the saw while ripping.
The power supply must be disconnected before making any adjustments to the saw or changing the blade.
Before the saw is set down, be sure the retracting guard has fully returned to its down position.
All saws must be cleaned after use and repairs made before being properly stored.
Repairs to the equipment must be performed by qualified personnel, using original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts or equivalent.
Document Management
Effective Date:Revision Date: