The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) has published
power tool safety practices for construction workers
as well as a
woodworking safety training tool that addresses many
safety concerns associated with using stationary power tools.
In addition to these specific guidelines and suggestions, here are some
general power tool safety tips to consider as well:
Always unplug power tools before adjusting or servicing them.
Wait for moving parts to stop moving before you approach a power tool.
Do not wear loose-fitting clothing, necklaces, or dangling jewelry
when using tools. They could be caught and entangled in the tool.
Always check a power tool's condition before using it. Inspect
power cords for frays or cracks in the insulation. Check the
sharpness of cutting edges and be sure handles are securely fastened.
Never remove safety mechanisms from power tools and do not tamper
with them.
Use the correct tool for the job. Read the instruction manual
and be sure you know how to use a tool before using it. Learn
what the tool is designed to do and don't use it for other purposes.
Wear safety goggles if there is even a remote possibility of an
eye injury when using a tool.
When you are working with tools, keep children and other onlookers
a safe distance away.
Before letting another person use a tool, instruct the person
in how to use the tool properly.
Work in adequate lighting conditions. Use lighting that fully
illuminates the work area and does not allow shadows to fall across
the project.
Never work with tools when you're tired, hungry, or upset.
Put tools away safely after using them, preferably in a locked
tool chest or tool box. Identify tools that need to be repaired
before storing them.