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| By: saintanddolphin on Sun, 05 Oct 2008 13:07:12
| | I heard it said once that:" building an enclosure was not rocket science." Although that may be true, it does require a level of competence and common sense as well as a working knowledge of power tools.
POWER TOOLS ARE DANGEROUS!
Never under estimate the hazards assosiated with building your own enclosure.
Circular saw/Table saw
1)Always wear safety glasses or goggles
2)Never start a saw when it is touching the material you are cutting.The reason?
If it is a circular saw it could move violently and very quickly towards you(its called kick back) and it WILL cut anything in its way.
If it is a table saw it could "kick back" the material you are cutting and possibly break bones.
3)When using a table saw and you are pushing the material through the saw,use a scrap 2"x4" to push smaller pieces through.It will keep your hand out of danger.
4)When using a circular saw always use a good,level,cutting platform like saw horses.
This will insure proper control over the tool.
4)Cut straight.Circular saws are not meant to cut circles.The blade could bind and cause "kick back".
5)If you have to change the Saw blade.UNPLUG IT!
Other Tips
The power saws are the most dangerous tools you will use when building your enclosure but there are other tools worth mentioning.
Drill
You probably wouldnt loose a limb but you could puncture yourself.
1)I never wear gloves of any type when i use a drill.The reason? the drill bit or the drill could capture the glove and wrap your hand up.
2)Try to use a variable speed drill.You will have more control of it versus a single speed drill.
3)If you have to change bits UNPLUG IT!
Jig Saw
1)If your not starting a cut from the edge of the material,drill a pilot hole larger than the jig saw blade you are using.Dont try to etch your way in.
2)Make sure you have enough area below the material for full travel of the jig saw blade.
3)If you have to change the blade UNPLUG IT!
Electrical Chords
When using any power tool the possibility of electrical shock exists.
1)Check extension chords for cuts.If there is a cut to the exterioir protective cover,wrap it with 3 or 4 layers of electrical tape.If the internal wires are damaged,is better to throw it away and buy a new one than take a chance.
2)Dont use power tools in the snow or rain..just asking for trouble.
H.A.L.T.
Hungry-Angry-Lonely-Tired
If any of these apply to you when you are using power tools then stop.
Power tools demand your complete attention.
A little respect and concentration will improve your skill and safety.
Good Luck,
Mike
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