METAL LATHE SAFETY WARNINGS
METAL LATHE SAFETY
1. This lathe is designed and intended for use by prop-
erly trained and experienced personnel only. If you are
not familiar with the proper and safe operation of a lathe,
do not use it until proper training and knowledge have
been acquired.
2. Always wear eye protection and a face shield / dust
mask when using the lathe.
3. Make sure all tools, chisels, and accessories are sharp
enough for the task at hand before using them. Always
use the right tool at the correct speed and feed rate.
4. Turn off and unplug the machine before doing any
cleaning or maintenance. Use a brush to remove chips
or debris. Never use your hands to remove excess mate-
rial and debris.
5. Check the workpiece carefully for inconsistencies or
obstructions. These types of blemishes may cause a
safety risk during turning.
6. Rotate the workpiece by hand to check clearance be-
fore turning the machine on.
7. Select the appropriate speed for the task at hand. Start
at a low speed and allow the lathe to ramp up to the
operating speed before engaging any chisels, tools, or
other carving accessories.
8. Never stop a rotating workpiece with your hand.
9. When turning between centers, make sure the head-
stock and tailstock are tight and snug against the work-
piece.
10. Always use a brush or rag to clear away chips from
the workpiece. Using your hand can cause serious injury.
11. Always remove the key from the chuck jaws before
operation.
12. Always wear a full face mask. If a tool or workpiece
breaks off, it can create a hazard to users and onlookers.
13. Always use the right cutting tool. An improper tool
could break or cause unwanted strain on the machine.
14. Never attempt to stop the lathe with your hand. You
will lose your hand.
15. Always use the proper feed rate for your workpiece.
An overly fast feed rate can damage the lathe or the
workpiece.
16. Secure the workpiece properly, make sure the chuck
is tight and secure on the workpiece before beginning
to turn. A loose workpiece can shoot out and severely
injure you or anyone around.
17. Use a tailstock to support long work stock. Anything
more than 2.5 times as long as it is thick needs the tail-
stock to support it.
18. Never operate the lathe with damaged parts.
19. Never turn a workpiece at RPMs that are too high
for the work material. This can cause the cutting tool to
break and launch off, injuring you or a bystander.
20. Never reverse motor direction while the machine is
running.
21. Never change the lead screw feed direction while the
machine is running.
22. Always ensure proper clearance between the work-
piece and the cross slide, compound slide, and tool post.
23. Always disengage automatic feed after a cutting
pass, even if it is the final cut. You can forget and hurt
yourself upon next use.
24. Always tie up long hair. Do not wear any loose /
hanging clothing. Even aprons can be hazards when im-
properly secured.
25. Remove any and all jewelry, rings, watches, etc. to
avoid getting them caught in the lathe.
WARNING! Do not let comfort or familiarity with the product replace strict adherence to product safety rules.
Failure to follow the safety instructions may result in serious personal injury.
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