JimDahlberg

I am a retired meatcutter with 40 years experience using a band-saw daily. Saying this, I hold out both hands and brag that I was never hospitalized.

I also have used a table saw for almost 50 years getting formal training as an adolescent in high school and later as an adult in evening classes.

I learned early on to respect the band-saw but not to be afraid of it. Fear can cause an unsteady or weak grip; lack of respect can cause . . . well, you know.

I agree that the most important safety tool is between the ears - most specifically through awareness. EVERY time I switched on that powerful band-saw I took a second to become aware and acknowledge what I was doing.

EVERY time I switch on my table saw I focus on the saw motivated by the thought of how ironic it would be to have an unblemished safety record in a very dangerous occupation only to retire and cut myself. No fear, just respect.