Safety Rules

Student Commitment

Instruction Required: I will not use any machine unless I have been fully instructed on its use and have achieved a score of 100% on the written and/or performance evaluation for that machine.
Follow Safety Rules: I will follow all safety rules and guidelines for the Career & Technical Laboratory at any time I participate in CTE activities or events.
Seek Permission: I will not use a machine or tool without prior permission from my teacher each time.
Report Conditions: I will advise my teacher if I am unwell, taking any medication, or under the influence of any drug that may affect my ability to concentrate or focus on tasks or activities.
Report Incidents: I will report any accident or injury, whether it involves me or another student, immediately to the teacher.

No horseplay or running: Avoid horseplay, running, or throwing objects in the woodshop to prevent accidents and injuries.
Follow instructor’s directions: Always adhere to the instructor’s rules, designed for safety and efficiency, even if you've learned different methods.
Wear safety glasses and attire: Use safety glasses, wear closed-toe shoes, push up/remove long sleeves, and avoid gloves when using power tools.
Turn off machines: Always power down and stop machines completely before stepping away to prevent injuries.
Instructor permission required: Operate tools only with the instructor’s permission to ensure proper supervision and safety.
Pass safety tests first: Score 100% on safety tests and demonstrate proper tool use before operating any equipment.
Don’t force wood: Stop immediately if wood resists or the machine struggles to avoid dangerous kickbacks or damage.
Report malfunctions: Notify the instructor immediately if a blade breaks or a machine malfunctions; use the emergency shut-off if needed.
Avoid distractions: Focus fully on tasks when operating machines; stop machines if you need to talk or handle distractions.
Clean workstation: Sweep or vacuum your area after each use to prevent accidents, reduce fire hazards, and maintain safety.

Eye Protection – Always wear safety glasses when using the band saw.
Blade Guide – Set the upper blade guide ⅛ inch above the material and ensure all safety guards are in place.
Power Check – Make sure the band saw is off before making any adjustments.
Cut Lines – Clearly mark your cut lines before operating the saw.
Positioning – Stand directly in front of the saw with both feet on the floor, and keep others out of the safety zone.
Controlled Cutting – Hold the material firmly on the table and let the blade do the cutting—never force it.
Relief Cuts – Make relief cuts before cutting tight curves, and never back out of a curved cut while the saw is running.
Hand Safety – Keep fingers away from the cut line and blade—use a push stick if necessary.
Shutdown – Turn off the band saw when finished and wait for it to stop before removing scraps.
Cleanup – Remove all scraps and dust from the saw before leaving the area.

Wear Proper Safety Gear – Always wear safety glasses and roll up long sleeves before using the scroll saw.
Apply Downward Pressure – Hold the workpiece firmly against the table to prevent it from lifting and vibrating when the blade moves up and down.
Use the Blade Guard – The blade guard (or shoe) should be positioned just above the material to help keep it stable, but you must still apply hand pressure.
Do Not Put Fingers Under the Shoe – Keep your hands clear of the cutting area and never place fingers under the blade guard while cutting.
Guide, Don’t Force – Push the material forward steadily; do not force it through the blade, as this can cause overheating and blade breakage.
Avoid Side Pressure – Never push the material side to side, as this can bend the blade and cause it to break. Instead, turn the piece while pushing forward when making curved cuts.
Make Relief Cuts First – Before cutting tight curves or corners, make relief cuts to remove excess material and reduce strain on the blade.
Keep the Bellows Pointed at the Blade – Ensure the air bellows are properly directed at the cutting area to keep sawdust clear and improve visibility.
Shut Down Before Walking Away – Always turn off the machine and wait for the blade to stop before leaving the work area.
Keep the Work Area Clean – Remove scraps and dust after each use to maintain a safe and organized workspace.