Essential Safety Tips to Follow When Using a Scroll Saw

Scroll saws are commonly used in carpentry and woodworking projects. Not to be confused with a band saw, they feature a thin circular blade. With this blade, you can make clean and intricate cuts on wooden workpieces. While scroll saws are generally considered safer than band saws, they can still cause injury when used incorrectly. Below are several essential safety tips to follow when using a scroll saw.

Wear a Dust Mask

Because they are designed for use in carpentry and woodworking projects, you should wear a dust mask when using a scroll saw. Cutting wooden workpieces will create dust. As the blade slices through the workpiece, dust will be released into the air. Wearing a dust mask will prevent you from accidentally inhaling this dust. It will filter particulate matter, including wood dust, from the air so that you don't inhale it.

Inspect the Blade

You should take a moment to inspect the blade before using a scroll saw. All scroll saws have a blade. When turned on, the blade will spin while cutting through the workpiece to which it's exposed. Blades, of course, can become dull. The more you use your scroll saw, the duller the blade will become. If the blade is too dull, it may struggle to cut through the workpiece.

Depending on the type of scroll saw, you may be able to sharpen the blade. Alternatively, you can replace it. Regardless, don't use the scroll saw if it has a dull blade. A dull blade can increase the risk of injury by preventing clean cuts.

Don't Cut Wet Wood

Another safety tip to follow when using a scroll saw is to avoid cutting wet wood. If a wooden workpiece is wet, wait for it to dry. What's wrong with using a scroll saw to cut wet wood exactly? When wet, wood becomes denser. It will hold water that creates resistance against the cutting blade of the scroll saw.

Cutting wet wood can also wear down your scroll saw. As the blade slices through the wet wood, it will pick up moisture. This moisture can lead to rust forming around the blade and other components.

Check the Blade Guard

You should check the blade guard before using a scroll saw. The blade guard is a shield of material that covers the blade. It's designed to prevent you from accidentally bumping or touching the blade while it's turning.

Before using a scroll saw, make sure the blade guard is intact. If it's missing, you'll need to replace it. The blade guard is an important safety component that can protect you from injury.