Risk Assessment/ Table Saw
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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 page directly. For responsible persons and last update, see 'version log' of this page.
Activity
Cutting wood or plastic on the table saw
Equipment
Equipment/Sedgwick Table saw, Equipment/Dewalt Table saw
Signage
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
| Identify Hazards | Who May be Harmed and How | Severity | Control Measures | Likelihood | Risk Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Incompetent user | User, Bystander | HIGH | Users must be inducted to use this tool. Members must challenge use that they believe is dangerous. Users should read the user manual where applicable. Users must read the risk assessment before using a tool. | LOW | MED |
| Contact with blade | User | HIGH | Use guards as per instruction manual. Do not put hands into exclusion zone (within 30cm of blade). Use push sticks and the fence provided when making cuts. Do not move hands past the blade. Do not lean over the blade. Saw should be switched off immediately after use. Saw blade should stop within 10 seconds of being turned off | LOW | MED |
| Drawing in (being pulled into the saw) | User | HIGH | User should not wear gloves, ties, scarves, or other long flowy clothing that could get pulled into the blade. Do not put hands into exclusion zone (within 30cm of blade). Do not lean over blade | LOW | MED |
| Ejection of workpiece (Kickback) | User, bystander, the space | HIGH | Do not stand directly behind blade. Use a feather board when working with smaller pieces. Take care to keep the workpiece against the fence when making mitre cuts Ensure riving knife is in place | LOW | MED |
| Dust (inhalation, fire, explosion) | User, bystander | LOW | The saw should be used with the dust extractor attached and working. Maintenance must include the cleaning of dust from within the saw housing. A respirator or mask should be used whilst operating this tool for prolonged periods | LOW | LOW |
| Blade snatching or jamming | User, bystander | MED | Only cut wood and plastic on the table saw Ensure a visual inspection of the table saw is undertaken before every use to check for physical obstructions | LOW | LOW |
| Noise | User, bystander | LOW | Ear protection is advised. User to give audible warning (EARS, GOING LOUD) before switching on | LOW | LOW |
| Flying splinters | User, bystander | LOW | Eye protection must be worn whilst using the table saw Eye protection must be worn by all users of the workshop. Do not cut small pieces | LOW | LOW |