Tip #54
MARK V Introduction
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General Safety Rules for Power Tools

Here are some general safety rules to follow when operating power tools:

• Read, understand and follow the Owners Manual for any tool you operate.
• Keep your hands and fingers out of the danger zone.
• Ground all tools (unless double insulated).
• Wear proper eye and ear protection. Also, wear a dust mask.
• Keep guards in place and in working order. Most injuries occur on unguarded power tools.
• Remove adjusting keys and wrenches.
• Do not wear loose clothing, ties, gloves, or jewelry. Roll sleeves up above your elbows, wear nonslip footwear, and tuck long hair under a hat.
• Do not operate power tools if you are fatigued, taking medication, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Do not use power tools in damp, wet or explosive atmospheres.
• Keep work areas well lit, clean, and free from clutter.
• Make sure accessories, safety devices and fixtures are properly adjusted and secured before turning on the machine.
• Secure all locks.
• Make sure the machine rests firmly on the floor when in use--not up on the retractable casters.
• Operate tools at the correct speed for the operation.
• Never stand directly in the line of rotation of a moving blade, cutter, disc or stock. If a kickback occurs you could be hit by the stock.
• Do not work with stock that is too small or too large to handle safely.
• Do not use second-hand lumber or wood that is wet, pltchy or has loose knots.
• Do not force a tool; it will do the job better and more safely at the rate for which it was designed.
• Do not use a tool or accessory to do a job for which it was not designed.
• Feed the workpiece into the cutter against the rotation of the cutter only.
• Repair or replace damaged parts before further use. If a strange noise or vibration develops, turn off and unplug the machine. Correct the problem.
• Use clamps, fixtures, and other devices to hold, support and control workpieces.
• Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times.
• Turn off the tool and wait until it comes to a complete stop before removing workpieces and scraps.
• Never try to stop the tool by grabbing the workpiece or any part of the tool. Turn off the tool and let it come to a complete stop by itself.
• Do not leave the tool running unattended. Turn power off. Don't leave tool until it comes to a complete stop.
• Avoid unintentional starting. Make sure the switch is In the "off" position before plugging in or unplugging the tool.
• Turn off and unplug tools before changing accessories and setups, making adjustments, and performing maintenance and repair.
• Do not stand or lean on the tool. You could fall onto the tool or it could tip over injuring you and/or damaging the tool.
• Keep parts and tools sharp, clean and maintained according to the Owners Manual.
• Make your workshop child-proof. Unplug tools, use pad-locks, master switches and remove starter keys.
• Keep children away. All visitors should stay a safe distance from power tools, and wear eye and ear protection.
• Use only recommended Shopsmith parts and accessories on your Shopsmith Wood-working System. NEVER use non-Shopsmith replacement parts or accessories. They are not designed like Shopsmith parts. Using non-Shopsmith parts may create a hazard and could void your warranties.
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