BBI woodworkers, I recently bought a table saw to rip some 2x4s into 2x2s and also cut down some plywood. I've never used one before but have been reading a lot about kickbacks and how dangerous the saw can be.
I've got the riving knife installed, as well as the blade guard and anti-kickback pawls. In addition, I plan to use a push stick.
Are there any other precautions you could recommend to make sure the operation is as safe as possible?
TIA!
Most annoying part of any project is sifting through the warped 2x4s at Lowes.
If you have long boards make sure you set up an outfeed table. This is a must and will save you a ton of frustration.
Use a push stick or shoe. An easy way to do this is to draw it out (graph paper works pretty good), set it on a piece of plywood and rout it. The shoe is probably a bit easier to use because it has a handle keeping your hand steadier with less chance of a slip.
Stand to the side of the table to avoid getting hit with kickbacks. You might even want to keep the kickback area away from windows and doors.
You can use a fence extension if you're making a long/thin rip. The guard gets in the way if you don't use an extension.
DON'T GET LAZY!
Use and understand all the safety features. Duh.
I'm a DIYer and have been using a table saw forever and second what Clams says. Always think abt the blade and you, the wood is a distant third in the thought process. Of all the DIY tools, I worry the most about my chain saw but the table saw is pretty high on the list.
And it goes without saying having someone to help you feed the wood through the saw is very helpful; the less you have to think abt the better.
DON'T GET LAZY!
This is the best advice. Take your time, be diligent and remain smart about the job that you're doing. Treat the table saw as what it is: a dangerous, destructive, deadly tool. Also, if you have little kids around the house, make sure you unplug or pull the key out between cuts.
Most table saw injuries happen because the person using the saw is a dumbass.
If you have long boards make sure you set up an outfeed table. This is a must and will save you a ton of frustration.
Use a push stick or shoe. An easy way to do this is to draw it out (graph paper works pretty good), set it on a piece of plywood and rout it. The shoe is probably a bit easier to use because it has a handle keeping your hand steadier with less chance of a slip.
Stand to the side of the table to avoid getting hit with kickbacks. You might even want to keep the kickback area away from windows and doors.
You can use a fence extension if you're making a long/thin rip. The guard gets in the way if you don't use an extension.
All good suggestions.
My addition is to ALWAYS maintain your balance with your weight on both feet when pushing work through; that is resist the temptation to lean forward using the workpiece or saw table to remain upright.
I teach a Woodworkers Safety course at our Condo association. Safety is key, but you need some formal training.
Good luck,
Lou
https://www.amazon.com/GRR-RIPPER-Pushblock-Router-Jointers-MICROJIG/dp/B001I9UNWC - ( New Window )