State four safety procedures when operating a portable powered plunge type router.

Plunge type router

(1) Firstly address the cutter – is it fit for purpose, sharp, correct type of tip (HSS, TCT or Diamond) and is it mounted in the router correctly.

(2) Then consider the use of the router – is the material held securely? Have we set the correct motor speed, understand correct plunging or entry into the material being cut and correct ‘feed speed’.

(3) Before using the router we should have considered the extraction of waste shavings and PPE ear defenders, goggle and dust mask

Power tool safety

(4) General ‘power tool’ safety. Good training in the correct use, good tool maintenance and inspection, clean and clear away unwanted power tools immediately after use. Power cord safety, no trailing leads, don’t ‘swing’ the tool by the lead, no bare wires and correctly fitting plugs.