Read and understand all safety instructions posted on band saws.
Vertical band saws seem relatively safe, but they can do bodily injury if not properly understood and respected. To practice band saw safety, read and understand all instruction manuals before attempting to operate a band saw. Other precautions include safety glasses, the use of push sticks, proper set-up and band saw limitations.
How They Work
Band saws cut by spinning long thin blades vertically between two rubber wheels. There are upper and lower guide blocks with bearings that prevent horizontal movement of the blade. The subtle momentum of the blade is almost imperceptible when the band saw is running, giving the band saw the pretense of safety. This is one factor that should never be taken for granted; the band saw should always be treated as if it were running.
Typical Accidents
Two actions are responsible for the majority of band saw accidents. The first is the failure of the operator to use a push stick when pushing an object through the band saw. The operator's hand slips as he is pushing the object and contacts the blade, cutting fingers or hands. The second is attempting to cut a round object such as a dowel. The blade catches the object and spins it out of the operator's hand. The blade catches the loose object and slams it back down into the band saw tabletop. The object then ricochets with force into the operator's face. This also occurs when a small cut-off piece contacts the saw blade. Small pieces must be kept away from a spinning saw blade.
Other Safety Considerations
Loose clothing, hair or jewelry should also be prohibited around the band saw. Hair must be tied back, jewelry removed and loose clothing avoided. Loose items on the operator can catch on the work-piece or saw blade. This can pull the operator's hands into the saw blade, or cause the work-piece to twist the saw blade. Another accident scenario is when the operator shuts off the saw and attempts to reach around the blade, underneath the blade housing, or attempts to open the case before the blade has stopped spinning.
Proper Tension and Set-Up
Blade tension must be maintained correctly for band saw safety. For correct tension, turn the knob on the top of the band saw clockwise to tighten the blade. While tightening the blade, pluck the string with your finger. The blade will sound like a guitar string when the tension is correct. Failure to have correct tension will result in the blade jumping out of the guard blocks if it is too loose or breaking the blade if it is too tight . Never force an object into a band saw. If the band saw motor slows down, back off the work-piece being cut and proceed slowly to prevent blade breakage.
Guards and Guide Block Adjustments
There are two bearings at the top of the band saw that slide up and down on an adjustable beam-like runner. The blade passes between these two bearings; the object being cut should run no more than 3/4 inch above the object. There should be a guard in place directly in front of the bearings that moves with the adjustment. This prevents fingers from slipping between the guide blocks and the object being cut. Never attempt to run a band saw without guards in place.
