Circular saw safety

Kickback is fast. Setup and stance decide whether it hurts you.

Key points

• Set the blade depth about a quarter inch below the material.
• Support the work so the cut doesn't pinch the blade.
• Stand to the side of the cut line, not behind the saw.
• Let the blade stop before lifting the saw.
• Check that the lower guard snaps back every time.

Ask the crew

• What cuts today are most likely to pinch?
• Who has seen kickback happen? What caused it?