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Drill Press Safety

Note: This document does not provide information about how to operate this machine. It only lists potential hazards associated with using the machine and safety practices. Before using the machine be sure to receive proper instruction on it's use.

Potential hazards:

1. Entanglement in the rotating bit

2. Spinning workpiece, particularly thin stock

3. Flying cuttings

4. Binding of the bit

5. Dropping the table

6. Improper bits flying to the side in chuck


Safety practices:

1. Make sure the machine is set-up correctly.

2. Make sure that all guards are in place and are correctly adjusted.

3. Use only round shanked bits in three jawed chucks. Use tapered bits only in special tapered chucks. Never use square tapered brace bits in power drills.

4. Change belts only when the drill press is stopped and unplugged.

5. Use correct speeds.

6. Use clamps or fixtures to hold small and thin work, or other work that may bind.

7. Hold the table securely when making table adjustments.

8. Always wear safety glasses.

9. Roll-up long sleeves and tie back long hair.

10. Do not wear dangling jewelry.


Guards:

1. Belt guard


Revised 9/5/01

zanerj@usm.maine.edu