Overhand Planers - Safety Rules for Operators
The overhand planer - buzzer, jointer, or surfacer as it is also called - has been responsible for many accidents in the woodworking industry. Most of these are due to failure to use the guards correctly or adopt safe methods. This booklet sets out five important safety rules for operators.
Table of Contents
RULE 1 - KEEP YOUR OVERHAND PLANER IN GOOD ORDER
Keep knives sharp and properly adjusted
Lock adjustable parts
Be tidy
RULE 2 - USE THE GUARDS AND KEEP THEM IN PROPER ADJUSTMENT
Bridge guard
Bridge guard adjustments
Flatting and edging stock of 75 mm thickness and less
Flatting and edging stock of thickness above 75 mm
Stock up to 75 mm square
Stock above 75 mm square
Alternative method for stock thickness above 75 mm
Guard at rear of fence
RULE 3 - ADOPT SAFE METHODS
Take light cuts
Feed timber correctly
Push blocks
Support long pieces
Prepare rough timber
Never machine thin material
RULE 4 - PERFORM SPECIAL OPERATIONS CORRECTLY
Safety precautions
'Dropping on'
Over-and-under planers
RULE 5 - STOP THE PLANER AFTER YOU HAVE USED IT
LEGAL REQUIREMENTS
