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SECTION Occupational Safety& Health <br /> STANDARD <br /> OPERATING S.O.G, No 401,03 <br /> GUIDELINES <br /> SUBJECT Operating Power Saws <br /> C. Make sure of your footing prior to operating the saw. <br /> D. Always turn off the saw when unattended. <br /> E. Have a plan of action before placing the saw into operation. The plan <br /> should include: <br /> 1. The location and the sequence of the cuts. <br /> 2, Wind direction—consider its effects on exposure and personnel. <br /> 3. Escape routes—at least two means of egress. <br /> F. Always place the safety guard in the proper position for the use intended <br /> before operating the saw. <br /> G. Remember that power saw operations are safest when cutting on a <br /> horizontal surface near the ground level or on a vertical surface at or <br /> below waist level. <br /> H. Operating a power saw above chest height is extremely hazardous and <br /> should not be attempted as a normal course of action. This type of action <br /> should be conducted only under the direct order and supervision of an <br /> officer. The officer ordering this operation shall first consider the value to <br /> be gained vs. the extreme hazard to personnel. <br /> I. The use of a power saw from a ladder shall only be done if no other <br /> alternatives are available. <br /> J. Do not operate saws close to a highly combustible or flammable material <br /> due to the possibility of ignition from sparks. <br /> K. Do not operate saws in flammable or explosive atmospheres. <br /> L. When operating a power saw, avoid placing side pressure or twisting the <br /> blade. Never force the saw. <br /> M. If conditions permit, scrape gravel and debris from the cutting path to <br /> reduce the injury from flying chips and loose material. <br /> VI. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS. <br /> A. A member who operates a power saw at an emergency incident or during <br /> a training session shall wear full protective clothing, including both ear and <br /> eye protection. <br /> B. A member who operates a power saw for the purpose of inspection or <br /> maintenance shall wear ear protection and safety shoes or boots. <br /> C. When operating a power saw, all clothing shall be close fitting and <br /> completely buttoned to prevent an accident due to moving belts, gears, <br /> chains, blades, etc. <br /> Page 2 of 3 <br />