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tools:general_metals:chop_saw_clearance

Metal Chop Saw Clearance

Members who are already proficient in the subject matter may apply to receive a clearance by demonstrating a core set of skills and knowledge that allow them to safely and effectively use the equipment.

Most tools in the shop require clearance before solo use. Each tool is different and most are expensive and/or delicate.

During a Proficiency Based Clearance Instructors will provide Protohaven specific customs and rules for the equipment but will not provide technical instruction on the operation of the hardware, or software.

If a member needs to gain additional knowledge or skill they should take a Basic Skills Class to learn the required skills.

The items that will need to be demonstrated to gain the Proficiency Based Clearance are:

General Shop Rules

Be safe

  • Understands safety clearances are required as bare minimum.
  • Understands equipment must never be left unattended.
  • Understands why equipment must be reset after use.

Take care of the tools

  • Will not alter or use equipment beyond limits.
  • Will notify when maintenance is needed.

Keep the shop clean

  • Understands importance of cleaning up after oneself.
  • Will return borrowed tools to original location.
  • Understands anything left outside of your paid monthly or overnight storage may be removed and disposed.

Personal Protective Equipment

  • Knows whether synthetic materials may be worn during use.
  • Knows whether long sleeves can be worn beyond elbows during operation of equipment.
  • Knows whether loose clothing & hair may be worn down.
  • Knows whether open-toed shoes may be worn.
  • Knows whether safety glasses and hearing protection are required during operation.
  • Knows whether safety glasses are required when near someone else operating equipment in the workshop.
  • Knows whether additional PPE is required (e.g. apron, face shield…)

Area Specific Instruction

Identify & mitigate common hazards

  • Sharp things - cutting tools, chips, burrs on work piece
  • Tangling hazard - no loose articles on the body, sleeves, gloves, or hand decorations (e.g. bracelets/rings)
  • Heat - cut & ground metal gets hot and can cause burns, start fires (use of water coolant)
  • Sound - hearing protection for louder operations
  • Pinching/crushing and projectile hazard if metal is not properly held (especially with the chop saw)
  • Brake at Disc Grinder for spin-down

Allowable Materials

  • Can name 3 materials allowed on a particular tool
  • Can name at least 2 materials not allowed on the tools
  • Safe Setup/Operation/Cleanup

Tool Specific Instruction

Point out the following tool features

  • Maintenance tag
  • Power switch
  • Clamping blocks
  • Clamp angle adjust lever
  • Clamp wheel
  • Clamping guide poster

Safe Setup/Operation/Cleanup

  • Demonstrate proper stock clamping and positioning of the blade for a straight cut
  • Demonstrate performing a straight cut
  • Demonstrate proper clamping of stock material for an angled cut
  • Demonstrate performing an angled cut

Knowledge and Technique

  • Can describe proper workholding technique to prevent metal from getting caught and thrown
  • Acknowledges the risk of serious injury by deviating from the recommendations in the clamping guide poster.
tools/general_metals/chop_saw_clearance.txt · Last modified: 2024/02/07 18:33 by smartin015