Concrete Saw Safety Tips

What are some concrete saw safety tips?

One of the most powerful hand-held tools available, a concrete saw is used to cut through solid concrete, brick, stone and asphalt by means of an extra-sharp spinning blade. Because it is so powerful and sharp, certain concrete saw safety tips should be kept in mind when handling one.

Protect Your Face

Although a concrete saw has a guard, its spinning blade can send small pieces of concrete and dust flying off in unpredictable directions. Protection for certain body parts is a must if you are to avoid injury. Wear construction goggles to protect your eyes. To protect your ears from both the loud noise and flying debris, wear construction earmuffs. Wearing a mask over your nose and mouth can help prevent cement dust from entering your lungs.

Protect Your Hands and Feet

Always wear protective gloves when operating a concrete saw. Gloves will protect your hands from flying debris and reduce the chance of getting cut by the saw's razor-sharp blade. In addition, to protect your feet from being cut by a dropped saw, wear thick boots. Never operate a concrete saw in sandals or barefoot.

Take Breaks

A concrete saw produces very strong vibrations. When you operate the saw, the vibrations can cause numbness in your hands and forearms. Be sure not to operate the concrete saw for extended periods of time without stopping from time to time--to regain full feeling in your hands. Too much numbness could lead to an accident--like allowing the saw to slip out of your control. With each break, be sure to check the blade, making certain it is locked in securely.

References

• HSS Hire Shops Concrete Ring Saw Safety Guidebook.