Powermatic 31A - Manual (Page 4)

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SAFETY RULES
As with all machines, there is a certain amount of hazard involved with the use of this sander. Use the machine with
the respect and caution demanded where safety precautions are concerned. When normal safety precautions are
overlooked or ignored, personal injury to the operator can result.
Read, understand and follow the safety and operating instructions found in this manual. Know the limitations and
hazards associated with this machine.
Electrical grounding. Make certain that the machine frame is electrically grounded and that a ground lead is
included in the incoming electrical service. In cases where a cord and plug are used, make certain that the
grounding plug connects to a suitable ground. Follow the grounding procedure indicated in the National Electrical
Code.
Eye safety. Wear an approved safety shield, goggles, or glasses to protect eyes. (NOTE: Common eyeglasses are
only impact-resistant, they are not safety glasses.)
Personal protection. Before operating the machine, remove tie, rings, watch and other jewelry and roll up sleeves
above the elbows. Remove all loose outer clothing and confine long hair. Protective type footwear should be used.
Where the noise exceeds the level of exposure allowed in Section 1910.95 of the OSHA Regulations, use hearing
protective devices. Do not wear gloves.
Guards. Keep the machine guards in place at all times when the machine is in use. If removed for maintenance
purposes, use extreme caution and replace guards on completion of the maintenance task before operating the
sander. DO NOT operate the machine with the guards off except for the belt end guard which swings away to allow
for contour sanding. Keep that guard in place except when contour sanding and swing it back into position
immediately after completing the contour sanding task.
Work area. Keep the floor around the machine clean and free of scrap material, saw dust, oil and other liquids to
minimize the danger of tripping or slipping. Make certain the work area is well lighted and that a proper exhaust
system is used to minimize dust. Powermatic recommends the use of anti-skid floor strips on the floor area where
the operator normally stands and that each machine’s work area be marked off. Provide adequate work space
around the machine.
Avoid accidental starting: Make certain motor switch is in off position before connecting power to the machine.
Operator position. Maintain a balanced stance and keep your body under control at all times. Do not over-reach.
Do not stand in line with the belt in the direction that it is moving when the work stop is not in use.
Belt and Disc Direction. Proper belt direction is from the idler pulley towards the drive pulley. Proper disc rotation
is counterclockwise facing the disc. CAUTION: Sand on the section of the disc from the center to the left edge. DO
NOT use the right hand portion for sanding.
Housekeeping. Before turning on machine, remove all extra equipment such as keys, wrenches, scrap, and
cleaning rags away from the machine.
Careless acts. Give the work you are doing your undivided attention. Looking around, carrying on a conversation,
and “horseplay” are careless acts that can result in serious injury.
Disconnect machine before performing any service or maintenance.
Hand safety. Keep fingers and hands away from the belt or disc. DO NOT clear sawdust from the table with the
hands; use a brush. On small or thin parts, use a push stick or jig to keep the hands from contacting the abrasive. If
using the optional fence, avoid getting fingers too close to the fence to prevent pinching. Never wear gloves while
operating the sander.
Machine capacity. Do not try to force the sander to remove material faster than the power available from the drive
motor. The use of light pressure on either disc or belt sanding and moving the part back and forth will maximize belt
or disc life, help to minimize the chances of an accident and keep the force within the capacity of the drive motor.