How do I safely use a table saw?
Before you cut
Inspect the saw: ensure the blade is sharp, the riving knife or splitter is aligned, and the guard is in place if you use one. Check that the fence is parallel to the blade to avoid binding and kickback.
Wear safety glasses and hearing protection. Avoid loose clothing, jewelry, and gloves that can catch. Tie back long hair. Make sure the work area is clean and you have firm footing.
- Check blade sharpness and alignment
- Ensure riving knife/splitter is installed
- Wear safety glasses and hearing protection
- Remove loose clothing and jewelry
During the cut
Stand slightly to the side of the blade, not directly behind it, to avoid kickback injuries. Use push sticks or push blocks to feed the wood; never let your hands get within 3 inches of the blade.
Feed the wood at a steady, moderate pace. Don't force it. Let the blade do the cutting. Keep the wood flat on the table and against the fence. Never reach over or behind the blade to retrieve cut pieces.
Avoiding kickback
Kickback happens when the wood binds between the blade and fence or when the blade grabs the wood and throws it back at you. Use a riving knife to prevent the kerf from closing. Keep the fence parallel to the blade.
Don't cut warped or twisted wood that can't sit flat. Don't cut freehand without a fence or miter gauge. When crosscutting, use a miter gauge, not the fence, to push the wood.
- Use a riving knife or splitter
- Keep fence parallel to blade
- Don't cut warped wood
- Use miter gauge for crosscuts
Common mistakes
- Standing directly behind the blade, where kickback would hit you.
- Reaching over the blade to grab a cut-off piece instead of using a push stick or waiting for the blade to stop.
- Removing the blade guard or riving knife because it's inconvenient—they are critical safety features.