Woodworking Safety Part II: Essential Woodshop Safety Supplies

Part I of this series covered safety attire that should be worn or available for use in a woodshop. In Part II, we cover some essential safety precautions to help prevent injury or provide first aid should an accident occur in the woodshop.

• Fully stocked first aid kit. A first aid kit should be available and accessible in the woodshop at all times. Even a small accident such as a minor cut should be treated right away to prevent further injury or infection.
• A working fire extinguisher. Like all electrical devices, electrical power tools pose a fire risk. The risk is increased with power tools due to the possibility of mistakenly sawing through a cord. Know where fire extinguishers are located in the woodshop and how to use them.
• Operator manuals for all hand and power tools in the shop. Different tools require specific safety precautions advised by the manufacturer. Adhering to all manufacturer recommendations for handling a tool and wearing the recommended protective gear during its use will contribute to a safer woodshop environment.
• Broom, hand brush, and other cleaning supplies. Keeping a woodshop clean and free of excessive sawdust promotes a safe environment and prevents unnecessary injuries. An accumulation of sawdust and other wood scraps can increase the danger in the event of a fire. Sawdust and wood scraps should be cleaned regularly with a broom or hand brush, not compressed air which can get dust into the eyes.
• A separate storage area for flammable materials. Containers holding flammable substances such as oils and stains should be closed immediately after use and returned to their designated storage area. Rags and brushes that have been used with these substances should be treated with the same caution. Keeping flammable materials away from power tools will help reduce the risk of fire in the woodshop.
• Personal safety attire and gear are discussed in Woodworking Safety Part I: Appropriate Woodshop Attire. An adequate supply of safety goggles, hearing protection, work gloves, dust masks, and respirators should be kept on hand in every woodshop.

About the Author: Maria Polidoro is the owner of Ace Tool Online, a leading provider of cordless and electrical power tools headquartered in Wantagh, New York. Ace Tool stocks the latest power tools, parts, and accessories including the full Amana saw blade and Amana router bit collection and over 70 other power tool brands.