Drill Press

Potential Hazards: Exposed moving parts and electrical hazard with the potential to cause harm through entanglement, impact and cutting, exposure to heat, dust, projectiles and sharp objects.

Purpose: A drill press is a specialised woodworking tool which uses a rotating drill bit to accurately drill holes in wood via a levered action.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Require Appropriate Footwear

1. PRE-Operation/Task:

·       Task (e.g. Drawings, instructions, specifications etc.) is clearly understood.

·       Drill bit is tight in chuck and chuck key has been removed.

·       Ensure appropriate guarding is in place and in good condition.

·       Ensure work piece is securely clamped.

·       Correct drill speed has been set.

·       Where necessary, ensure depth stop for drill has been set or wood to be drilled is rested on scrap.

·       Identify ON/OFF switch and emergency stop button (if applicable).

2. Operation/Task:

·       Check, that drill runs ‘true’ and does not wobble.

·       Keep hands clear of work piece and away from rotating tool.

·       Back out frequently to clean and cool the drill bit.

·       Turn off machine before belt speeds are changed.

3. POST-Operation/Task:

·       Switch off the drill before removing chips and shavings from the drill table.

·       Return clean drill bit to drill rack and clamps to their storage area.

·       Ensure good housekeeping practices are in place to minimise dust build-up.