A miter saw is a circular power saw that is mounted on a frame
and designed to make accurate angle cuts. The saw blade and motor are mounted
on an elbow hinged arm, which is fixed at the rear of the saw. When the blade is
lowered in a chopping motion, the blade cuts through the work
piece, passing through a slot in the base. The miter saw is
sometimes referred to as a chop box.
The operator of a miter saw slides the head out over the work,
then lowers the blade into the wood, and makes the cut
while pushing the head back toward the fence. Most workers find
that this feels safer than pulling the blade toward them during a
cut, as is done with a radial arm saw. (Buildscape, article 105)
Point of Operation
- The operator's hands may slip off the stock while
pushing into the saw blade. This may result in severe cuts and amputations.
- Severe cuts and amputations may also occur if the
operator's hand are too close to the blade during
- Miter saws must be equipped with a guard that
protects the portion of the saw above the table. The
guard must automatically adjust itself to the
thickness of the material being cut in order to
provide continuous protection from the blade.
Additional Safety Measures
- Make sure hands are kept at a
safe distance from the blade during cutting operations.
- Always wear eye and face protection.