Risk Assessment/ Router Table

Risk Assessment - Router Table

This risk assessment is intended to provide guidance on the risk associated with the above equipment and activities in normal use. Please also check general risk assessments for the space as a whole. Any discrepancies, errors or concerns should be raised with the document maintainers or trustees - do not edit this assessment directly. For responsible persons and last update, see 'version log' of the assessment page.

Activity

Cutting wood or plastic on the router table

Signage

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Understanding Risk Rating

LOW - Ensure current control measures are in place and continue with activity

MED - Control measures may be adequate, co-supervision is recommended

HIGH - Do not undertake activity without further consultation with area specialists

Risk Assessment

Something with the potential to cause harm	Users, bystanders or particular at risk groups	Low/Medium/High	What is in place to reduce the harm or likelihood.	Low/Medium/High
Incompetent user	User, Bystander	HIGH	Users must not use tools that they are not competent to use.   Members must challenge use that they believe is dangerous. Users must read the user manual where applicable.  Users must read the risk assessment before using a tool.  Users will be advised during induction which tools they will need supervision or an induction to use.	LOW	MED
Contact With Router Bit	User – serious harm	HIGH	Use the fence provided.   Only make adjustments to the router table when the machine is switched off.   Make sure to follow the correct direction of the work piece against the router bit.   Do not put hands into exclusion zone (within 10cm of router).   Do not leave router table running when not in use.  Switch router table off immediately after use.  Router should stop within 10 seconds of being turned off.	LOW	MED
Drawing in (being pulled into the router)	User of the tool – serious harm	HIGH	User of the router table should not wear gloves, ties, scarves, or other long flowy clothing that could get pulled into the router bit. Do not put hands into exclusion zone (within 10cm of router bit).	LOW	MED
Dust (inhalation, fire, explosion)	User of the tool, users of the room, the space – breathing difficulties/irritation	LOW	The router table should be used with the dust extractor attached and working.   Maintenance must include the cleaning of dust from within the router housing.   A respirator or mask should be used whilst operating this tool	LOW	LOW
Router bit snatching or jamming	User, bystanders – serious harm	HIGH	Only route wood on the router table     Ensure a visual inspection of the router table is undertaken before every use to check for physical obstruction.	LOW	MED
Ejection of workpiece (Kickback)	User of the tool, users of the room, the space. – serious harm	HIGH	Do not stand in the path of moving material.  Ensure there is good pressure of the workpiece against the fence   Avoid routing pieces that are difficult to move/hold	LOW	MED