SAFE WORK PROCEDURES

CIRCULAR SAW
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
1.
Portable electric circular saws must not be used unless the operator has received training or has been fully instructed in the safe use of the machine.
2.
Appropriate personal protective equipment must be worn when using circular saws.
3.
Portable electric circular saws must only be used on circuits protected by a residual current device (RCD) and/or safety switch.
Task sequence
1. Pre-start checks

Identified hazards in task

Electric shock
Cuts, lacerations

2. Maintenance and
replacement of blades

Moving parts
Cuts, lacerations
Foreign body in eye

3. Preparation of work area

4. Operation

Slips, trips and falls

Sawdust
Noise
Cuts, lacerations
Falling objects

SWP12 Version 2.0

Key processes to be followed

Check casing for damage, cracks and missing screws.
Inspect lead and plug for damage; current test tag must be attached.
Make sure that controls operate smoothly.
Ensure that guard is fitted, and is operating correctly. (Guard should move
easily, and spring back to original position when released).
Check suitability of blade for work to be performed.
If using fibre blade for metal cutting, inspect blade for cracks, damage, or
excessive or uneven wear.
Ensure that handles and grips are fitted firmly, and do not move.
Unplug machine before carrying out maintenance.
Place machine on firm, stable surface or bench to carry out maintenance.
Use correct (supplied) spanners and tools to undo spindle nut.
Use brush to clean dust and debris from guard, spindle and backing plate.
Ensure spindle thread is undamaged, and that backing plate sits flush.
When using fibre blade for metal cutting, ensure that blade speed matches
that of the saw, and that the spindle hole matches the diameter of the saw
spindle.
Mount blade, washers and nut in correct order, and tighten firmly with the
correct tools and spanners.
Ensure that floor or working surface is free from rubbish and debris, and that
a good foothold is available for persons using circular saws.
Ensure that material to be cut is secured and prevented from accidental
movement while being worked on.
Saw will generate quantities of fine dust which will hang in the air, and be
breathed in and also lodge in eyes.
Circular saws will generate high noise levels in operation, especially in
enclosed or restricted areas.
Always cut away from the body never cut towards the body.
Support work pieces as fully as possible to prevent falling when cut.

ASSA Pty Ltd

ThisSafeWorkProcedurewasgeneratedon29/11/2013byASSAPtyLtdforuseonlybyCityofDarwin.

Precautions / PPE required

If any damage, missing parts, or
out of test, do not use machine
arrange for immediate repairs.
Do not use saw without guard, or
lock or tie guard in open position.
Do not use unsuitable blade.
Replace blade if teeth chipped,
broken or missing.

Wear leather gloves when

handling rough or sharp parts.
Wear eye protection if using
compressed air for cleaning.
Do not use incompatible disc, or
disc which does not meet all of the
criteria listed at left.
Ensure all surfaces are clean.
Do not over tighten nut.
Keep work areas clean.
Wear leather gloves when
handling rough or sharp objects.
Dust mask should be worn.
Eye protection must be worn.
Hearing protection must be
worn.
Wear Type 1 footwear.

www.assaohs.com.au

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SAFE WORK PROCEDURES

CIRCULAR SAW
Task sequence
5. Special precautions

Identified hazards in task

Toxic dust

Harmful dust
Risk of fire

Key processes to be followed

Medium density fibreboard (MDF) (Craftwood) contains a formaldehyde
based adhesive which is toxic, and dust must not be inhaled.
Prevent entry of persons into areas where MDF is being worked on.
Asbestos based materials must never be cut using power tools.
Avoid breathing dust generated by cutting of metal with circular saws fitted
with fibre blades.
Fine sawdust is extremely and readily combustible.

Precautions / PPE required

Type P2 particulate dust mask
or respirator must be worn.
Prevent unnecessary entry.
Dust mask must be worn.
No smoking or flames.

PRECAUTIONS:
The following precautions should be
observed, and suitable safety and warning
signs as indicated should be displayed in
areas where circular saws are used.

SWP12 Version 2.0

ASSA Pty Ltd

ThisSafeWorkProcedurewasgeneratedon29/11/2013byASSAPtyLtdforuseonlybyCityofDarwin.

www.assaohs.com.au

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