Power tools such as the table saw demand respect for anyone that uses this machine. The table saw according to the size the wood worker has in their shop, is a very dangerous high powered machine. Using it requires much attention and focus while it is in operation. While some table saws operate at different ratios of speed, that does not mean the table saw is any less dangerous to the woodworker. The difference being some table saws are belt driven while others are shaft driven. Shaft driven table saws are the most dangerous because they are direct fed from the motor. Belt driven table saws are somewhat more forgiving, but are still dangerous to the user.
During the operation of a table saw, many things can go wrong in the blink of an eye. Kick backs due to the grains of the wood, while cutting, can throw the wood plank back at you and cause blunt trauma to the body. This is a very dangerous situation when this happens. Wood planks have been known to fly the entire length of a room and in some cases even go through a wall. A woodworker should never stand directly behind the plank while the table saw is in operation. Stand to the side to feed the plank through the blade and once the plank has cleared the other side of the blade, put a wedge between the wood's cut to hold open the gap. This will keep the table saw blade from binding and causing a kick back.
Never adjust the blade while the saw is running. The blade could catch a loose piece of cut material you can not see from above and make it a flying projectile. Most table saws have a safety device to keep the power shut off while making adjustments to the machine. A yellow prong key that you can put into the switch to cut it on and remove to keep it off. A good wood worker will keep this key in his pocket to keep anyone else from activating the saw while they are making adjustments.
When cutting extremely tight widths on a table saw always use a wood push stick to feed the plank through the blade and wood rest. Never use anything metal or harder than the wood being cut. A tapered wood push stick will be sufficient in pushing the plank on through without endangering your fingers or hand.
When changing the blades of the table saw never assume the saw will not cut on. Be smart and use the yellow key and also turn the power breaker to the off position and hang a lock in it. This will prevent the event of shock and a accidental turn on from a power surge that could happen.Be careful when changing the blade on a table saw. The edges are very sharp and can cut you like a knife. Use gloves or a shop towel to hold the blade so you will not get cut. You should make sure before installing a new blade that you have the correct size radius blade to put back on. The wrong size blade will make the saw grind metal against metal and could shear the blade shaft if thrown into operation with out knowing.
Make sure all your protective guards are in place and inspect them for damage. Most table saws have plastic blade guards to protect you from the rotation of the blade. This type of guard can crack and the fastener bolts that hold it on the saw can become loose. Before you use the saw, do a quick inspection to all the safety features that are on the table saw. Prevention is the key to safety when operating the table saw and it can save you from being hurt badly.