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Safe and effective use of a
wood lathe requires study and knowledge of proper machine operation, tool
use and correct turning techniques. It is your responsibility to read and
follow all warning labels and owners/operators manuals supplied on or with
machinery, chucks, tools and other products. It is your responsibility to
become properly educated in all aspects of woodturning prior to turning
wood.
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Always wear a full-face
shield at all times. Shop/Safety glasses alone are not sufficient protection
from flying debris.
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Exposure to wood dust can be
harmful to your respiratory system. Always use a proper dust mask or air
filtration helmet in addition to adequate ventilation.
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Always wear adequate hearing
protection. Long-term exposure to noise can damage hearing.
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Do not wear loose clothing,
gloves, jewelry or any objects that dangle as they may become entangled in
the lathe. Always tie back long hair. Check your person and your
surroundings for any other items that may be accidentally entangled.
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Check your owner/operators
manual for proper speed recommendations. If you cannot find recommended
speeds, please seek the advise of a professional prior to operating the
lathe. Use slower speeds for larger diameter or out of balance work.
NEVER start the lathe before checking to make sure the lathe speed
setting is correct for the size of work to be turned. If excess vibration or
shaking occurs, stop the lathe and determine the cause before proceeding.
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Prior to starting the lathe,
rotate the work piece by hand to make sure that it clears the tool rest
support and lathe bed. Also, make certain that all clamping devices are
locked and that the tailstock is proper seated against the work.
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Be sure the work piece is
securely mounted and is free of imperfections or substandard glue joints
that may result in the work piece separating or flying apart.
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Make certain that the belt
guard and/or control and motor covers are is in place. Check to make sure
all tightening handles are properly tightened.
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Make sure that the tool is
resting on the tool rest before beginning the cut. Always run the lathe at
slow speeds while making roughing cuts and NEVER use a roughing gouge on a
bowl.
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Prior to running the lathe
in reverse, make sure that necessary steps are taken to prevent the work
piece and/or chuck from unscrewing itself from the lathe.
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Always know your
capabilities and work within your limits. Many techniques and procedures
used by professional woodturners may be beyond your abilities or skill level
and can prove to be dangerous if attempted.
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Utilize the tailstock
whenever possible. This provides an added level of safety as it often times
prevents the work from coming off the lathe during a mishap.
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Always remove the tool rest
before sanding and finishing. Failing to do so can result in serious injury
to your hand and fingers.
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Do not overreach! Although
many of today’s tools have long blades, this does not mean that they are
designed to reach long distances over the rest. Overreaching can cause the
blade and/or a handle to break causing serious injury.
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Keep your tools sharp and
properly ground. Dull tools are dangerous as they require excessive pressure
to make them cut. If you have difficulty in sharpening, seek the
advice of an expert for proper training. Keep tools out of the reach of
children.
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Do not use tools for
purposes for which they are not designed or intended for. Using a tool,
chuck or lathe component for purpose other than what they were designed to
do will likely result in an accident
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Properly dispose of
finishing rags and unused finishes.
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Do not leave finish
containers open and keep them away from open flame.
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Keep your work area clean
and free of clutter and debris.
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Use caution when finishing
with cloth rags, they may become entangled and cause injury.
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Inspect your lathe and
equipment frequently. Check power cords, connections and do not use
extension cords for providing power to the lathe.
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Stay alert, take frequent
breaks and never operate the lathe or other shop equipment when under the
influence of drugs, medication or alcohol.
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Never leave the lathe
running unattended. Be certain to turn off power to your lathe when not in
use.
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Use a well-balanced stance
when turning while maintaining a firm, comfortable grip on the tool.
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Use common sense, if you’re
unsure, seek the advice of an expert. Always take necessary safety
precautions to prevent serious injury.
