December 29, 2009 8:00 AM CST

Power Saw Safety QuickTip From OSHA

By Masonry

Each year in American workplaces, powered portable and stationary mechanical saws are responsible for thousands of injuries serious enough to require medical attention. Most of these injuries occur because the saw operator is not adequately trained, or the saw blade is insufficiently protected. Using properly guarded blades and appropriate protective equipment, such as safety goggles, will greatly reduce the risk of safety and health hazards when working with saws.

OSHA offers the following safety tips:

• Keep hands and other body parts away from the line along which the saw will cut



• When using a table saw, always guard the portion of the blade below the table



• Keep saw blades in good condition to prevent the saw from throwing debris



• Always guard the saw's power transmission apparatus.

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About the Author

Masonry, the official publication of the Mason Contractors Association of America, covers every aspect of the mason contractor profession - equipment and techniques, building codes and standards, business planning, promoting your business, legal issues and more. Read or subscribe to Masonry magazine at www.masonrymagazine.com.