Steps for Using a Table Saw

Working with the table saw's sharp-toothed blade requires caution.

Using a table saw has three general steps: layout, preparation and feeding. An understanding of all three steps of the process allows you to safely use a table saw and make clean, professional-looking cuts.

Layout

The layout step includes measuring components to determine the desired finished width of your material and marking the location of the cut on the material's surface. A tape measure, straight edge, square and carpenter's pencil are the most common tools used to lay out cuts for the table saw.

Preparation

During the preparation step, the table saw operator adjusts the tilt of the table saw's table, adjusts the position of the table saw's guide rail and ensures the table saw is free of debris and dust. The guide rail's position affects the straightness and width of the cut. The tilt of the table puts a bevel, or angle, on the cut. A clean table ensures that the blade or material does not become jammed and cause injury to the operator.

Feeding

Following proper preparation, the table saw operator turns on the saw and feeds, or pushes, the material through the table saw's spinning blade. The operator may butt the material against the guide rail to ensure a straight cut. The safe operator switches from pushing to pulling halfway through the feed; this practice keeps the operator's hands clear from the blade.

References

• University of California, Berkeley: Table Saw Training
• University of California, Santa Barbara: Woodshop Safety