Push Sticks, Zero Clearance Table Inserts

Statistics prove that most common acci- dents among table saw users can be linked to kickback. Kickback is typically defined as the high-speed expulsion of stock from the table saw toward its opera- tor. In addition to the danger of the opera- tor or others in the area being struck by the flying stock, it is often the case that the operator’s hands are pulled into the blade during the kickback. The following can help minimize kickbacks.

1.Use your blade guard and splitter.

2.Never, for any reason, place your hand behind the blade. Should kickback occur, your hand will be pulled into the blade.

3.Inspect for alignment along the splitter and your blade.

4.Never use the fence as a guide for crosscutting.

5.Never attempt freehand cuts.

6.Use a pushstick or featherboard to main- tain control of your workpiece.

7.Feed cuts through to completion.

8.Stand to the side when ripping.

9.Ensure that your fence and your miter slot are parallel to the blade.

If you do not have a clear understanding of kickback and how it occurs, do not operate this table saw.

Safety Accessories

Push Sticks

The use of push sticks, particularly when cutting small or narrow workpieces, provides a double benefit for saw operators. The push stick pro- vides added leverage, enabling the operator to keep the workpiece firmly supported against the fence and the table. At the same time, the push stick keeps the operatorÕs hand safely away from the rotation of the saw blade. See the template at the end of the manual for construction details, or purchase one from the Grizzly catalog. See

Figure 1.

Figure 1. Push Stick.

Zero Clearance Table Inserts

Ideal for use when ripping thin strips or making bevel cuts, zero clearance table inserts prevent tear-out and jammed blades by supporting mate- rial that is close to the blade. Use the standard table insert as a template when creating addition- al inserts from wood or plywood. Blade slot inserts can be custom cut for specific blade angles by raising the running blade into an uncut insert at the angle you desire. Be sure to make an additional slot for the blade splitter. There are also a wide selection of table inserts in the Grizzly catalog. Clamp the insert firmly in place with a piece of wood when creating slots. Never hold the table insert with your hand while cutting new slots. See Figure 2 for examples of zero clear- ance table inserts.

G1023SL/G1023SLX Left-Tilting 10'' Table Saw

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