Tools/mitresaw/induction

NOTICE, THIS WIKI PAGE IS INCOMPLETE AND I WILL TRY TO FINISH IT OVER THE NEXT WEEK

Some of the tools at the Hackspace are potentially hazardous to use, for these tools members are required to have an induction before they can use them. Inductions provide the most basic information on how to safely and effectively use the simpler functions of the tools, we appreciate that some members may have professional experience on some of these tools and in this case please tell your induction provider and the induction may be very reduced and just cover any risks or procedures specific to rLab. Some tools have multiple levels of induction in order to cover more advanced uses of that tool without making the basic induction take too long, higher induction levels will introduce some of the more advanced features of the tools but as with all inductions are only intended to provide basic information on the capabilities of the tools and how to use them safely. Some members of rLab may be willing to offer more detailed tuition beyond basic induction level or offer guided practice sessions in exchange for beer money or assistance on their own projects.

For all tools you are only required to take level-1 induction before use, after that you may perform any task that you feel confident you can do safely, higher levels of induction may be useful to you in performing more advanced operations but are not required before doing tasks covered in them so long as you're confident of your ability to handle those tasks without risk to yourself, others, or the tool.

PLEASE NOTE : All induction providers are volunteers who are providing inductions to the best of their ability but are NOT qualified instructors. Inductions are provided on a best-effort basis but you and you alone are responsible for your safety while using the tools and for satisfying yourself that you can operate the tools safely. There are professional training courses available from various providers in Reading and the surrounding area if you feel they are appropriate for the level of work you intend to undertake. Reading these notes is NOT a substitute for an in-person induction.

Note for wiki editors : Please do not edit induction pages unless you are one of of the people that gives that induction

Introduction

The mitre saw, also known as a chop saw, is one of the most basic bench tools in woodworking. Do not let its simplicity fool you: it is as useful a tool as it is simple. It can be used for anything from cutting long planks down to size to making accurate bevels.

Induction Level 1

Topic	Detailed contents	Rationale
Functionality and limitations	This tool can be used for cutting all woods, and some plastics. Be extremely wary when using reclaimed wood, as this can rip off teeth and make the tool unbalanced and less functional. This tool will not cut metal.	Description of what the tool can and cannot do.
Proper clothing	Long hair must be tied back. No jewelry Either tight sleeves or short sleeves or loose sleeves rolled up. Mention catch points: Most notably the knobs, the guard, and the blade itself.	Any loose hanging clothing or hair can get tangled, either pulling someone in or immobilizing the user.
PPE	For general use, goggles and ear protecters are essential. But for more major projects or projects on plastics or treated woods, a dust mask is also recommended.	This protects the human body from the noise and particulates that come from operating a mitre saw.
Nomenclature	Fence Bed Rail Safety catch Guard Handle Rule Bevel protractor Mitre protractor	Allows for easy communication
Adjustments	Ensure the machine is switched off prior to all adjustments, and ensure that all locks are in place prior to switching on. To adjust the mitre, unscrew the knob and lift the handle at the end of the bed, adjust to a custom mitre angle or use the slots at the base of the bed to adjust to 15, 22.5, 30, or 45 degrees; retighten the knob when finished. To adjust the bevel angle, pull the lever located underneath the rail, then turn the unit counterclockwise until you are at the correct bevel angle. The slide position does not need to be adjusted, but when in use it should be extended as far out as is necessary prior to switching on, and when not in use it should be contracted as deep in as possible locked by twisting the red screw above the rail.	This ensures that the tool is correctly adjusted for minimal later adjustment.
Starup / shutdown	Ensure all adjustments are complete and locked BEFORE startup. Switch on the mains on the blue column (I will attach this to a double socket that'll switch on a shopvac soon). Position the wood in such a way that it is easily accessible and in the correct position without needing to reach in front of, under, or behind the saw. Hold the wood firmly against the fence, keeping your hands well clear of the red area, and test that the blade lands in the correct position (always cut a bit before or after your line such that the edge of the blade is on the line, not the center, this ensures an accurate cut with minimal waste). Start the mitre saw by clicking the red trigger. When the blade has stopped increasing in speed (indicated by wizzing sound becoming constant), pull the safety catch up, and gradually lower the blade onto your work. If you are using the slide feature, keep the trigger clicked and slide in (away from yourself). Release the trigger and allow the blade to come to a complete stop before removing from your work. || This ensures correct use of the tool.
Cleaning up	Switch the machine off at the socket. Run the shopvac on and around the mitre saw, and lift the guard and clean underneath it as well. If using for extended periods of time, brush the work area down, especially around the cutting area.	Clean up ensures pleasant use and reduced fire risk.