In the past, when the blade-guard dropped, operators tended to grab it to lift it up, making contact with the blade in the process; therefore, a back guard is now fitted
A wood mouthpiece should be fitted around the blade to prevent finger access (indication of poor maintenance if worn)
It is important that there is a guard under the table to prevent the blade being ejected if it snaps, as well as accidental contact during use.
Over braking can snap the blade.
When used with the fence, a guide should also be used to reduce the amount of blade exposed. Fingers should be kept out of direct line with the blade and a push stick used, particularly for small work pieces.
A clicking noise is indicative of a cracked blade. The flywheel cover should be locked but an interlock is not required. However, micro switches tend to be fitted on newer machines to stop them starting. To determine the minimum size of the blade required to cut a curve, draw a tangent to the curve and measure contact with the curve.
