Bandsaws and Band Resaws Safety Checklist
Machine Shop Safety Quick Links
Bandsaws and Band Resaws Safety Checklist
Always follow manufacturer's instructions and recommendations for safe and proper use.
- Bandsaw wheels must be full encased.
- The outside periphery of the enclosure must be solid.
- The front and back of the band wheels must be either enclosed by solid material or by wire mesh or perforated metal.
- The wire mesh or perforated metal must not be less than 0.037 inch (U.S. Gage No. 20), and the openings must not be greater than 3/8 inch.
- The portion of the blade between the sliding guide and the upper-saw wheel guard is guarded at the front and outer side. (See picture below - unused portion of the blade is not guarded and must be corrected.)
- The guard should be self-adjusting and raise/lower with the guide.
- The upper-wheel guard must conform to the travel of the saw on the wheel.
- Each bandsaw must be provided with a tension control device to indicate a proper tension for the standard saws used on the machine, and reduce the chance of saw breakage due to improper tension.
- Feed rolls of band resaws must be protected with a suitable guard to prevent the hands of the operator from coming in contact with the in-running rolls at any point.
- The guard must be constructed of a heavy material, preferably metal.
- The edge of the guard comes to within 3/8 inch of the plane that is formed by the inside face of the feed roll in contact with the stock being cut.
Contact Information
Robin McCall-Miller, Occupational Safety Program Manager
- Call: 540-231-2341
- Email: rmmiller@vt.edu