Coping saws, used to saw small cuts into materials like wood, plastic and laminate, require safe handling. To prevent injury, professionals adhere to strict safety guidelines when using them. This economical tool houses a narrow, hardened steel blade–safety rules on how to handle the blade need to be in the front of the mind of the user.
Use Safety Glasses – Protect your eyes with safety glasses when using the coping saw. According to Gary Katz in his 2001 book, “Trimwork Made Easy,” safety conscious professionals rely on personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent injuries and fatalities. When professionals use coping saws for small cuts in doorways, or wood windows, they always wear safety glasses as part of their professional gear. Safety glasses prevent shards of wood and the dust from entering your eyes.
Use Sheath or Holster – When carrying the coping saw, put it in a sheath or holster to prevent being accidentally cut, advises the maine.gov Hand Tool Safety Guidebook. The teeth in the coping saw, while short, are very sharp. Carrying it in a sheath or holster will protect you in case you fall while you are carrying the coping saw.
Keep Hands & Objects Away – Coping saws have sharp, set teeth that cut a “kerf” or path into the object you are sawing, according to the Woodworking Project. Avoid touching the teeth of the coping saw. Keep objects that aren’t being cut away from the saw. When holding the object you are cutting, keep your hands and fingers away from the teeth.
Keep in Good Condition – Don’t use a coping saw that has splinters on the handle. Don’t use a coping saw that has a loose blade. A coping saw that has a dull blade or teeth that are missing or bent should not be used. Coping saws are economical, 2010 prices run $3 to $8. Replace any coping saw or coping saw blade not in good condition.
Oil the Saw – Oil the coping saw after each use, recommends the Hand Tool Safety Guidebook. Using all-around lubricant, put on a pair of industrial-strength gloves and follow the lubricant directions to apply it onto the saw’s teeth.