Whenever you turn on any of your power tools you run the risk of catastrophic injury. This sobering fact is always close to mind in the best woodworkers and other power tool using trades people, and staying aware of danger is part of what keeps them safe. Furthermore, the very safest people in the power tool using community know and follow the seven rules of power tool safety outlined for you below.

This guide is not intended to replace the importance of reading the safety instructions in the manual that comes with every power tool... Be careful and be safe.

1) You Are The Most Dangerous Power Tool

Power tool users debate at great length about which is actually the most dangerous power tool. Everyone agrees however that the number one most dangerous power tool is the operator himself, as there are very few cases of any power tools leaping out to attack randomly. Remember that every time you turn on a power tool it's you who are responsible for having the same number of fingers when you turn it off. This may seem like an obvious statement but it's the arrogant, cocky and negligent power tool users who end up forgetting this cardinal habit.

2) Some Power Tools More Frequently Hurt Their Operators But All Are Equally Dangerous

Every power tool in your tool shed can be deadly to you if you forget the cardinal habit, but some are definitely more frequent causes of trips to the doctor. You should exercise caution especially when you pick up that box cutter of yours to open up your latest power tool. Also, the table saw is widely considered one of the most frequent finger removers, as is the radial arm saw and the chain saw.

3) Safe Tools are Sharp, Clean, True and Smooth Running

Tool maintenance is another key factor in power tool safety. You should study the manual that comes with all of your power tools to learn how and how often you should be sharpening, aligning and cleaning your tool. And always be watching for changes in its operating function - listen for funny noises or any jiggles that may develop. These are signs that you need to take a look at the manual and work on your tool. A calendar in your shop that you can mark with tool maintenance times is a good idea too.

4) Keep Your Work Space Tidy, Well Lit and Distraction Free

Whether you're working in your basement shop or a job site it's vital that you keep it clean, well lit and free from distractions. The tidiness means that you won't be falling over any bits and pieces of your project that you've left around. Get into the habit of cleaning up after yourself as you work and you'll be well along your way to preventing work-site accidents. Bright lighting too is vital to any power tool operation as the lighting helps you keep your hands away from the blade and shows you exactly where blades are at all times. Get as many light bulbs as possible on your next job and you'll keep yourself out of the emergency room. Finally, make sure that there's no music on that could distract you, or cell phones or anything else that could pull your awareness away from where it needs to be.

5) Purchase or Make the Appropriate Safety Accessories

Woodworkers have their push sticks, feather boards and push blocks to make sure that they keep their cuts as true as possible while keeping their fingers away from the blade. Many power tool operators protect their hearing with ear plugs and their lungs with masks or good ventilation. Many power tools have common safety accessories and it's up to you to make sure that you know what they are and use them religiously.

6) Keep a First Aid Kit Handy

In addition to the normal stuff like bandages and peroxide you're going to want to keep a couple of extra items handy that have a grim significance. Keep a plastic garbage bag handy for transporting any severed limbs with you to the hospital. Further, a small pocket mirror is vital for checking on your face in the case of a facial wound. Have these items available and hope that you never have to use them.

7) Always Trust Your Gut

Most power tool operators report a little twinge of conscience right before they get hurt on a power tool. A little voice or feeling that says "hm... this isn't safe." If you get that voice then stop what ever you're doing right away. Further, it's often when people try old jobs in new ways - new ways that they just make up on the spot without thinking them through - that they get hurt too. So pay attention to that little voice inside of you and you'll be much more likely to stay safe!

Remember - it's up to you to keep yourself safe when using power tools. Always read the manuals and remember the seven truths of power tool safety!