Vancouver Tool Library logo

Circular Saw

Circular saws are among the most dangerous commonly available power tools. They are not as forgiving as some other power tools, so you must make sure that you have the knowledge to make a safe cut.

Download this page as a PDF

Ensure that you have the right tool for your job. E.g. a mitre saw, table saw, or reciprocating saw can be more effective for certain tasks.

Kickback is the most common problem. It can happen to even the most careful users. You can minimize the chance of kickback by properly setting the blade depth, using a sharp blade, standing in the right position, ensuring that the material is held securely.

Safety

  1. Wear proper safety gear. Appropriate shoes, safety glasses, hearing protection. Mask depending on material. Do not wear work gloves – they could get caught.
  2. Ensure that your work area is well-lit and clear of obstacles/debris. Never use in a wet location.
  3. Keep your finger off the trigger when not cutting.
  4. Ensure cables are out of the way.
  5. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. Do not overreach.
  6. Do not place your body in-line with the cut. If kickback occurs, then the saw will fly in that direction.
  7. Focus 100% on the cut. No distractions.
  8. Cut straight. Do not try to adjust the direction of your cut. Never pull the saw backward when cutting.
  9. Disconnect power completely before touching the blade.

Tool Check

  1. Blade-guard retracts and recovers properly.
  2. Plate is flat and in good condition.
  3. Adjustments for plate depth & angle move and lock.
  4. Blade mount – Blade is in the right direction, and is held tightly to the arbor. No lateral wobble.
  5. Blade condition – Blade is flat and not warped. Teeth are present, sharp, and clean.
  6. Electrics – trigger on & off is functional, cord is safe, plug is safe.
  7. Running – sounds ok and no vibration.

Prepare to Use

  1. Wear proper safety gear. See section 1.
  2. Do a tool check. See section 2.
  3. Use the correct blade for your cut.
  4. Check the workpiece for obstructions or risks (e.g. nails, staples, stones, loose knots).
  5. Set the cut depth correctly (⅛” below the material)
  6. Secure the workpiece properly. Secure one side only, allowing the other side to fall away.
  7. Motor should face the side of the material that will not fall.
  8. Allow motor to reach full speed before cutting.

After your cut

  1. Allow the blade to stop spinning.
  2. Rest the saw on its side or on the guard (never rest on the blade).
Read more of …