# ⚠️ Risk Assessment - Bandsaws Download link: [\#201 - Bandsaws - 260903.pdf](https://wiki.leicesterhackspace.org.uk/attachments/13)
**\#** **Identify Hazards** **Risk** **Who may be harmed** **Severity** **Control Measures** **Likelihood** **Risk Rating**
1 Electricity Electric shock User **High** All electrical equipment should be checked for electrical safety prior to use. Equipment must not be used unless they have a PAT test label on. It is the users responsibility to do a visual check of the equipment. If any defects are found (i.e. cracked casing, defect in lead etc) the equipment is not to be used, to be quarantined, safety officer informed, and a defect label attached. Induction covers inspection of equipment before usage. **Low** **Med**
2 Misuse of equipment Damage to user or equipment User, Bystander **High** Members are inducted into the correct use of the equipment and understand associated risks. Members are unable to use equipment until induction has been completed and approved. Members found to be deliberately misusing equipment may have their use of the equipment restricted or revoked altogether. **Low** **Med**
3 Blade Contact with cutting edge causing injury User **High** Do not put hands into a position where they can come in contact with the blade. Use a push stick and the fence provided when making straight cuts. Do not move hands past the blade. Saw should not be moving whilst the station is not actively in use for cutting or left unattended. Members should stop the machine after use using the stop button or brake if fitted. Correct usage is covered in induction. **Med** **Med**
4 Blade Blade snatching, jamming or breaking User, Bystander **High** Only cut wood and plastic on the small band saw. The large bandsaw should be only used to cut wood across the grain, plastic, sheet materials and non-ferrous metal (Note: A larger blade is available for ripping wood and can be fitted by competent persons). Ensure a visual inspection of the band saw is undertaken before every use for physical obstructions and blade condition. Do not force material through the saw. Do not attempt to make sharp angle cuts in one attempt. Correct cutting techniques and material usage are covered in the induction **Low** **Med**
5 Gloves, loose clothing, loose hair Drawing in (being pulled into the saw) User **High** Users of the saw should not wear gloves, ties, scarves, or loose clothing that could get pulled into the blade. Members are informed about proper attire during their induction. **Low** **Med**
6 Dust Inhalation, fire User, Bystander **Med** Dust extraction should be used at all all times whilst the machine is in use. The saw should be cleaned down on completion of use; this should include inside the machine doors. A respirator or mask should be used whilst operating this tool for prolonged periods. Use of dust extraction, proper cleaning, and location of respirators are covered in the induction. **Low** **Low**
7 Noise Hearing damage User, Bystander **Med** Ear protection is provided for use. Risks and location of ear protection are covered in induction. **Med** **Low**
8 Flying Splinters Eye damage User, Bystander **High** Eye protection must be worn In the workshop at all times. Risks and location of eye protection are covered in the induction. **Low** **Med**
9 Other members Distraction User, Bystander **High** The "do not disturb" light should be used when operating the bandsaw to avoid accidents being caused by distraction of the user. **Low** **Med**