Lathe Safety

Function:

To turn square pieces of wood into round objects.

Why we use it:

The lathe is often used to turn spindles such as table legs and baseball bats, but it also used to create wooden bowls, pens, and many other round wood objects.

Safety Concerns:

1. Educate yourself on proper turning techniques, chuck operation, tool use and lathe operation.

2. Always wear a full-face shield at all times. Safety glasses are not sufficient protection against flying debris.

3. Always use a dust mask or air filtration system.

4. Wear adequate hearing protection.

5. Don’t wear loose clothing, gloves or jewelry as they may become tangled with the lathe.

6. Never start the lathe before checking to make sure the spindle speed is correct for the size of work being turned. Also, make sure the work clears the tool rest by rotating the hand wheel before starting the lathe.

7. Be sure the work piece is securely mounted and is free of imperfections or poor glue joints.

8. Make sure all belt guards and covers are in place before starting the lathe.

9. Make sure the tool is on the tool rest before making a cut.

10. Always know your capabilities and work within your limits.

11. Utilize the tailstock whenever possible.

12. Always remove the tool rest support before sanding and finishing. This will help prevent injuries to your hands and fingers.

13. Do Not Overreach! Although many of today’s tools have long blades, this does not mean they are designed to reach long distances over the tool rest.

14. Keep your tools sharp and properly ground. Dull tools are dangerous, as they require excessive pressure to make them cut.

15. Do not use tools for purposes they are not intended for.

16. Properly dispose of rags and do not leave finish containers open.

17. Never leave the lathe running unattended.

18. Stay alert, take frequent breaks and never operate the lathe while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

19. Use common sense at all times.