Whether you're an old hand at using power tools or you just picked up your first saws-all, safety is an overriding priority when you work. Through haste, cutting corners or sheer disregard for safety, millions of people end up in the emergency room every year as a result of accidents involving power tools. Here are a few things to remember in the workshop that will help you keep all of your digits.
Most safety tips for using power tools will seem like common sense. But even obvious points sometimes get overlooked. For example, working in a well-lit area is an easy one that sometimes gets ignored. If you are working in the dark, it is very easy to hurt yourself or damage the piece you are working on. Turn on all the lights in your work area, and if there is no light bring along a portable shop light.
Another point to consider in safety with power tools is the emergency cutoff switch. Most larger power tools have an emergency cutoff button or switch, be aware of its location so you will be able to shut off the equipment if things get out of hand. For safety with smaller power tools that may not have a cutoff button, just make sure you know how to turn the tool off, be able to pull its plug quickly and know where the wall switch is that would turn it off.
One very important safety rule is: Don't leave power tools running when not in use! Even if you have to step away from the equipment for only five seconds, that is plenty of time for an accident to occur. You don't want to end up driving your kid to the hospital with a mangled hand because you couldn't take a moment to hit the stop switch. So make safety part of your routine with power tools and cut the power off, even if you are only turning away from your work for a second.
Another safety pointer for power tools is never put your fingers in the path of a saw. Sometimes people pencil out the cutting line, set down the tool and turn it on, and they don't think about where their hand is positioned on the wood. Before you start cutting be aware of where your free hand is positioned, never place it on or near a cutting line. If it can be reasonably done, try to wear a pair of gloves when using any power tools to protect your hands from flying debris as well as the tool itself. Think about safety and keep track of your hands.
One last and very important reminder for safety is never drink while you use power tools. Whether you're doing yard work or a small job in the house, alcohol increases the odds of an accident tenfold. People like to relax in their work room and it can be tempting to crack open a beer when doing a project with a friend, but it is definitely not a good idea from a safety perspective. Alcohol and power tools do not mix!