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These include push sticks, feather boards, filler
pieces, fixtures, jigs and any ot her appropriate
device that can be utilized to keep operator's
hands away from the blade. Upon completion of
the operation requiring removal of the guard, t he
entire guard assembly must be placed back o n
the machine in its proper working order.
Never use a dado head in a
tilted position. Never operate the saw without
the blade guard, splitter and anti-kickback
pawls for operations where they can be
used.
Safety Devices Feather Board
The feather board (Figure 36) should be made
of straight grain hardwood approximately 1" thick
and 4" to 8" wide depending on the size of t he
machine. The length is developed in accordance
with intended use. Feather boards can be
fastened to the table or rip fence by use of
C-clamps. Alternatively, drilled and t apped holes
in the table top allow the use of wi ng nuts and
washers as a method of clamping. If this method
of fastening is used, provide slots i n the feat her
board for adjustment. (The illustratio n shows a
method of attaching and use of the feather
board as a vertical comb. The hori zontal
application is essentially the same except that
the attachment is to the table top.)
Push Stick & Push Blo ck
The use of a push block or push stick provides
an added level of safety for the operator.
See the templates in Figures 38 a nd 39 for
construction details, or purchase one from the
JET Wood working Machinery and Accessor ies
catalog.
Figure 38 – Push Block Template
Figure 36
Filler Piece
A filler piece (Figure 37) is neces sar y f or narrow
ripping and permits the blade guard to remain on
the machine. It also provides space for t he safe
use of a push stick.
Figure 37 – Filler Piece