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2. General Health & Safety Guidance cont.
in which the machine is to be used is capable of supporting
the machine.
• The machine and its various components can be heavy.
Always adopt a safe lifting technique and seek assistance when lifting
heavy components. In some cases it may be necessary to use mechanical
handling equipment to position the machine within the work area.
• Some machines have optional wheel kits available to allow them to be
manoeuvred around the workshop as required. Care should be taken to
install these according to the instructions provided.
• Due to the nature of the design of some machines the centre of gravity
will be high making them unstable when moved. Extreme care should be
taken when moving any machine.
• If transportation of the machine is required then all precautions relating
to the installation and handling of the machine apply. In addition, ensure
that any vehicles or manual handling equipment used for transportation
are of adequate specification.
6. The machine should be level and stable at all times
• When using a leg stand or cabinet base that is designed to be fitted to
the machine, always ensure that it is securely fastened to the machine
using the fixings provided.
• If the machine is suitable to be used on a workbench, ensure that the
workbench is well constructed and capable of withstanding the weight
of the machine. The machine should always be securely fastened to the
workbench with appropriate fixings.
• Where possible, floor standing machines should always be secured to the
floor with fixings appropriate to the structure of the floor.
• The floor surface should be sound and level. All of the feet of the
machine should make contact with the floor surface. If they do not, either
re-locate the machine to a more suitable position or use packing shims
between the feet and the floor surface to ensure the machine is stable.
7. Remove adjusting keys and wrenches
• Ensure that all adjusting wrenches and keys are removed before
switching the machine ‘ON’. There is a risk of severe personal injury or
damage to the machine from airborne objects.
8. Before switching the machine ‘ON’
• Clear the machine table of all objects (tools, scrap pieces etc.)
• Make sure there is no debris between the work piece and the
table / work support.
• Ensure that the work piece is not pressed against, or touching the saw
blade or cutting tool.
• Check all clamps, work holding devices and fences to ensure that they
are secure and cannot move during machining operations.
• Plan the way that you will hold and feed the work piece for the entire
machining operation.
9. Whilst machining
• Before starting work, watch the machine while it runs. If it makes
an unfamiliar noise or vibrates excessively, switch the machine ‘OFF’
immediately and disconnect it from the power supply. Do not restart until
finding and correcting the source of the problem.
10. Keep the work area clear
• Working clearances can be thought of as the distances between
machines and obstacles that allow safe operation of every machine
without limitation. Consider existing and anticipated machine needs, size
of material to be processed through each machine and space for auxiliary
stands and/or work tables. Also consider the relative position of each
machine to one another for efficient material handling. Be sure to allow
yourself sufficient room to safely operate your machines in any
foreseeable operation.
• Cluttered work areas and benches create the risk of accidents. Keep
benches clear and tidy away tools that are not in use.
• Ensure that the floor area is kept clean and clear of any dust and debris
that may create trip or slip hazards.
11. Consider the work area environment
• Do not expose the machine to rain or damp conditions.
• Keep the work area well lit and ensure that there is artificial lighting
available when there is insufficient natural light to effectively light the
work area. Lighting should be bright enough to eliminate shadow and
prevent eye strain.
• Do not use the machine in explosive environments eg. in the presence of
flammable liquids, gases or dust.
• The presence of high levels of dust created by machining wood can
present a risk of fire or explosion. Always use dust extraction equipment
to minimise the risk.
12. Keep other persons away (and pets)
• The machine is designed to be used by one person only.
• Do not let persons, especially children, touch the machine or extension
cable (if used) and keep visitors away from the work area.
• Never leave the machine running unattended. Turn the power supply off
and do not leave the machine unattended until it comes to a
complete stop.
• If the work area is to be left unattended, all machinery should be
switched ‘OFF’ and isolated from the mains power supply.
13. Store machines safely when not in use
• When not in use, machines should be stored in a dry place, out of reach
of children. Do not allow persons unfamiliar with these instructions or
with the machine to operate it.
14. Do not overreach
• Choose a working position that allows your body to remain balanced and
feed the work piece in to the machine without overreaching.
• Keep proper footing and balance at all times.
15. Electrical supply
• Electrical circuits should be dedicated to each machine or large enough to
handle combined motor amp loads. Power outlets should be located near
each machine so that power or extension cables are not obstructing high-
traffic areas. Observe local electrical guidelines for proper installation of
new lighting, power outlets, or circuits.
• The machine must be connected to an earthed power supply.
• The power supply must be equipped with a circuit breaker that provides
short circuit, overload and earth leakage protection.
• The voltage of the machine must correspond to the voltage of the mains
power supply.
• The mains plug fitted to the machine should always match the power
outlet. Do not modify the plug in any way. If a replacement plug is
required it should be fitted by a competent person and of the correct type
and rating for the machine.
• If you are unsure about any electrical connections always consult a
qualified electrician.
16. Avoid unintentional starting of the machine
• Most machines are fitted with a no-volt release (NVR) switch to prevent
unintentional starting. If in doubt always ensure the machine switch
is in the ‘OFF’ position before connecting it to the power supply. This
means the machine will not automatically start up after a power cut or
switching on of the power supply, unless you first reset the start switch.
17. Outdoor use
• Your machine should not be used outdoors.
18. Extension cables
• Whenever possible, the use of extension cables is not recommended.
If the use of an extension cable is unavoidable, then it should have a
minimum core cross section of 2.5 mm² and limited to a maximum length
of 3 metres.
• Extension cables should be routed away from the direct working area to
prevent a trip hazard.
19. Guard against electric shock
• Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces such as pipes
and radiators. There is an increased risk of electric shock if your body is
earthed or grounded.
20. Always work within the machine’s intended capacities
• Operator safety and machine performance are seriously adversely