Safely Operating a Circular Saw

When working with a circular saw, one moment of distraction or carelessness is all it takes for tragedy to strike. A list of circular saw injuries includes cuts to the hand, severed toes, cut lips, lacerated legs and amputated fingers. To avoid injuries, the article recommends a number of do's and don'ts, including:

Do:

Wear personal protective equipment, including safety glasses or goggles, faceshields, and hearing protection.
Ensure all safety guards are in good working order before starting work.
Ensure the saw's blade is sharp. Sharp blades are safer and work better.
Keep cords away from the cutting area.
Know that circular saws are designed to be used by right-handed operators. If you are left-handed, the saw will require more care to use safely.
Check to be sure the retracting lower blade guard returns to its starting position before laying down the saw.
De-energize your saw before changing or adjusting its blade.
Keep the saw clean.
Maintain good footing when using the saw.

Don't:

Put your hand under the saw's guard.
Operate a vibrating saw.
Force the saw when cutting.
Hold or carry the saw with your finger on the trigger switch.
Use the saw without first checking for materials, such as a nail or screw, that may cause an obstruction.