What Are the Dangers of Table Saws?

Electrocution

• A danger of electrocution exists any time you work with a device powered by electricity. Table saws usually plug into a standard 110-volt outlet, and might cause shocks capable of killing an adult male. Avoid this problem by always working in shoes with rubber soles, taking a careful look at your workspace for compromised outlets and ensuring your shop is free of standing water or moisture.

Debris

• Table saws are designed to be as safe as possible, but this does not change the fact that they spin at incredibly high speeds. The saws often throw splinters of wood and other debris through the air. Most saws have a protective cover to catch splinters, but wearing goggles or other protective eyewear is a must when using a table saw.

Cuts

• Power saws are designed with one purpose in mind: cutting things. Your table saw can make short work out of many types of wood. It is very important to keep careful tabs on the placement of your hands when using a table saw; a slip in judgment or focus could result in a serious cut or loss of a finger. Warn bystanders to stay clear of the saw before you start cutting.

Output

• Table saws pull wood pieces across the blade, and eject the newly cut sections from one end. Saws can pull wood through with a great deal of force, and the ejection of these pieces pose a threat to any child, pet or adult standing in the path of the ejecting wood. As is the case with any power tool, keep an eye on your environment before engaging in dangerous activity.