Sometimes called a 'Chop Saw", the miter saw is the contractor's best friend. It's great for making many repeatable 'cross cuts' in narrow boards such a 2x4s and baseboards. This is commonly refered to cutting boards 'to length'. You can also use this tools to easily cut miters and bevels, hence the name. If you plan on a career in the construction industry, get familiar with this saw.
The miter saw is one of the most dangerous machines in the lab. Use care in its operation.
Safety practices to remember before operating the miter saw:
Keep protective guards in place at all times.
Remove scraps and other foreign items from the machine before operating the saw.
Use a clamp to hold down short stock.
The work piece should be held in place, rather than the off-fall, by the operator for all cuts.
NEVER use the miter saw to cut rough or warped material to length.
Safety practices to follow when operating the miter saw:
Make sure the piece to be cut is firmly against the table and fence before cutting.
Allow the blade to reach full speed before cutting.
Do not force the blade into the work.
Never hold the piece to be cut in a manner that causes your arms to cross. The majority of all cuts are made on the miter saw with the material held with the left hand on the left side of the saw while the right hand operates the machine.
Always maintain a 6” margin of safety between all body parts and the blade.
Remove chips, scraps and cutoffs only after the blade has come to a complete stop.
After placing the stock securely on the saw table and aligning the cut, pull the trigger. After the blade comes to full speed, lower the blade into the work at a moderate speed. When the cut is complete, release the trigger and allow the blade to come to a complete stop before returning it to the upright position.
Do not leave the area of the machine until the blade has come to a full and complete stop.