wright_714

I have had the accident of which you speak, badly damaging the tips of my middle three fingers on the jointer. It just shows you that taking your mind of of something in the shop for even a second can change things permanently. I know that Norm always used to say "Read and understand all the rules that come with power tools," but that bit of advice is priceless too. My first inclination was to question the jointer, but I soon realized it was all me. The accident has put a sense of fear and awareness in me when I turn on any tool in my shop, which I hope will be enough to keep me safe.

Another thing I have found important is to let family or friends know you are working on a project. It is easy to be ripping a piece of stock on the table saw and be distracted by someone coming into your line of sight or hear someone yell for you, and take your mind off the workpiece. It may cause an argument with the wifey, but she wouldn't want you to get hurt, at least I hope not. Good article.