Source: MSHA-US Dept of Labor
Thursday, November 12, 2015
METAL / NONMETAL Serious Injury Incident
Hazard Alert: US Dept of Labour - Saw 2015
Cement Plant – A contract employee (victim) was using a handheld rotary saw with a worn concrete blade to cut through a 6-inch iron pipe. As the worker attempted to cut the pipe from the bottom up, the saw bounced off the pipe, striking the victim in the chest and causing a severe wound. Worker was transported to a local hospital and was released several days later.
Best Practices
- Use appropriate equipment for the job.
- Train workers on machine use and allow only trained workers to operate and maintain the equipment.
- Frequently inspect equipment and guards.
- Do not use worn blades due to the potential to cause kickbacks.
- Follow manufacturer’s specifications and operating procedures.
- Choose the correct blade for the material being cut.
- Make sure the blade is properly secured and the blade guard is down.
- Make sure the blade has no damage (chips or cracks).
Source: Mine Safety and Health Administration, United States Department of Labour