Miter Saw Notes

Also similarly named, chop saw, radial arm saw, compound saw

Requirements:

Proper eye protection must be worn—operate only with instructor’s permission and after proper instructions have been received.

Make all adjustments with the power off and the cutter head behind the fence.
Make sure that the cutter is off, place the wood against the fence, and slowly “walk” the blade forward to check your cut mark.
Before you make any cut, wait until the exhaust system is turned on and the cutter head is turning at full speed.
If cutting long pieces of wood,get your partner to help support the length to your left.
Never attempt to cut wood that is wider than can fit comfortably.
Place the wood against the fence, use your left hand to hold it flush and flat against the table. Or if piece is too small use clamps or another piece of wood to keep hands in safe areas on the outside of the "no hand zones" as indicated on the machine.
Stand to the left of the blade and use your right hand to guide the blade across the wood.
Always make sure that the blade guard and kick-back fingers are properly adjusted before you attempt to rip the wood.
Feed the blade into the wood only as fast as it can smoothly cut without binding or “sticking.”
Always pull the blade through the wood and return it back behind the fence before making your next cut.
Always make sure that the machine is turned off, unplugged, and that the blade has stopped before you leave the machine.
As with any machine, if you think that it is not working properly, turn it off, unplug it, and get the teacher(s) to inspect it.
Always use common sense when operating this and any machine. Remove your jewelry, tuck your shirt in, wear safety glasses, work with a partner, and always keep your fingers and body away from the path of the blade.
Never, ever, place any part of your body directly in front of or behind the blade.
Because this is one of the most dangerous tools in this work area I want people to work in partners on this tool, one watching to make sure hands are safe and nobody could bump the operator, and one doing the cutting.