The video “I can’t believe I caught this on camera! (Kickback through a wall!)” is by Stumpy Nubs. In this eye-opening video, Stumpy shares a critical learning experience from his workshop that highlights the importance of safety while using a table saw.
A Shocking Incident
A few years ago, Stumpy was working in his office when he heard a loud bang coming from the main shop. Upon investigating, he discovered that a colleague had experienced a kickback at the table saw, which sent a strip of wood flying through the wall behind him. The wood penetrated two layers of drywall, making its way into the finishing room. Thankfully, no one was hurt, but the incident served as a stark reminder of the potential dangers in the workshop.
Understanding Kickback
Stumpy emphasizes that this incident is a valuable learning opportunity for all woodworkers. The kickback occurred during a bevel cut, and despite following many safety protocols, it still happened. Notably, there was no blade guard on the saw, but the fence’s position made it impossible to use one effectively. A riving knife was installed, which is crucial for preventing kickbacks, but in this case, it didn’t help because the kickback originated at the front of the blade.
What Went Wrong?
Stumpy explains that the pusher used to move the workpiece forward caused the offcut to shift toward the blade, leading to the kickback. The offcut was positioned next to the blade, and when the pusher was drawn back, it nudged the offcut into the blade, resulting in a dangerous situation. This all occurred in just a fraction of a second, demonstrating how quickly accidents can happen.
Preventative Measures
To prevent similar incidents in the future, Stumpy suggests several strategies:
- Follow Through: Always push the workpiece fully clear of the blade at the end of the cut.
- Use the Right Pusher: Consider using a wide push block when ripping narrow strips to keep both the workpiece and offcut safe.
- Adjust Blade Height: Raising the blade can change the direction of the teeth, potentially reducing kickback risks.
- Utilize Auxiliary Fences: These can allow for the use of a blade guard while maintaining safety.
The Importance of Safety Practices
Stumpy reminds viewers that a key safety practice is to never reach for an offcut until the blade has completely stopped spinning. Many accidents occur when individuals attempt to retrieve offcuts while the blade is still active, leading to severe injuries. This is a critical lesson for anyone working with table saws.
Conclusion
Stumpy concludes by reinforcing the importance of using a blade guard, which remains one of the most effective safety devices for table saws. He encourages everyone to prioritize safety in their workshops to prevent accidents and injuries.
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