Specific Safety Rules - RIDGID R8651 Operator's Manual

SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES

 When blade is binding, or when interrupting a cut
for any reason, release the trigger and hold the saw
motionless in the material until the blade comes to a
complete stop. Never attempt to remove the saw from
the work or pull the saw backward while the blade is
in motion or kickback may occur. Investigate and take
corrective actions to eliminate the cause of blade binding.
 When restarting a saw in the workpiece, centre the
saw blade in the kerf and check that saw teeth are
not engaged into the material. If saw blade is binding,
it may walk up or kickback from the workpiece as the
saw is restarted.
 Support large panels to minimise the risk of blade
pinching and kickback. Large panels tend to sag under
their own weight. Supports must be placed under the
panel on both sides, near the line of cut and near the
edge of the panel.
 Do not use dull or damaged blades. Unsharpened
or improperly set blades produce narrow kerf causing
excessive friction, blade binding and kickback.
 Blade depth and bevel adjusting locking levers must be
tight and secure before making cut. If blade adjustment
shifts while cutting, it may cause binding and kickback.
 Use extra caution when making a "plunge cut" into
existing walls or other blind areas. The protruding blade
may cut objects that can cause kickback.
 Check lower guard for proper closing before each
use. Do not operate the saw if lower guard does not
move freely and close instantly. Never clamp or tie the
lower guard into the open position. If saw is accidentally
dropped, lower guard may be bent. Raise the lower guard
with the retracting handle and make sure it moves freely
and does not touch the blade or any other part, in all
angles and depths of cut.
 Check the operation of the lower guard spring. If the
guard and the spring are not operating properly, they
must be serviced before use. Lower guard may operate
sluggishly due to damaged parts, gummy deposits, or a
build-up of debris.
 Lower guard should be retracted manually only for
special cuts, such as "plunge cuts" and "compound
cuts." Raise lower guard by retracting handle and as
soon as blade enters the material, the lower guard
must be released. For all other sawing, the lower guard
should operate automatically.
 Always observe that the lower guard is covering the
blade before placing saw down on bench or floor. An
unprotected, coasting blade will cause the saw to walk
backwards, cutting whatever is in its path. Be aware of the
time it takes for the blade to stop after switch is released.
 Use clamps or another practical way to secure and
support the workpiece to a stable platform. Holding
the work by hand or against your body leaves it unstable
and may lead to loss of control.
 Wait for the cutter to stop before setting the tool down.
An exposed cutter may engage the surface leading to
possible loss of control and serious injury.
 Know your power tool. Read operator's manual care-
fully. Learn its applications and limitations, as well
as the specific potential hazards related to this tool.
Following this rule will reduce the risk of electric shock,
fire, or serious injury.
 Always wear eye protection with side shields marked
to comply with ANSI Z87.1, along with hearing protec-
tion. Failure to do so could result in objects being thrown
into your eyes and other possible serious injuries.
 Protect your lungs. Wear a face or dust mask if the
operation is dusty. Following this rule will reduce the risk
of serious personal injury.
 Protect your hearing. Wear hearing protection during
extended periods of operation. Following this rule will
reduce the risk of serious personal injury.
 Battery tools do not have to be plugged into an elec-
trical outlet; therefore, they are always in operating
condition. Be aware of possible hazards when not
using your battery tool or when changing accessories.
Following this rule will reduce the risk of electric shock,
fire, or serious personal injury.
 Do not place battery tools or their batteries near
fire or heat. This will reduce the risk of explosion and
possibly injury.
 Never use a battery that has been dropped or received
a sharp blow. A damaged battery is subject to explosion.
Properly dispose of a dropped or damaged battery im-
mediately.
 Batteries can explode in the presence of a source
of ignition, such as a pilot light. To reduce the risk of
serious personal injury, never use any cordless product
in the presence of open flame. An exploded battery can
propel debris and chemicals. If exposed, flush with water
immediately.
 Do not charge battery tool in a damp or wet
location. Following this rule will reduce the risk of electric
shock.
 For best results, your battery tool should be charged
in a location where the temperature is more than
50°F but less than 100°F. To reduce the risk of seri-
ous personal injury, do not store outside or in vehicles.
 Under extreme usage or temperature conditions,
battery leakage may occur. If liquid comes in contact
with your skin, wash immediately with soap and water,
then neutralize with lemon juice or vinegar. If liquid
gets into your eyes, flush them with clean water for
at least 10 minutes, then seek immediate medical
attention. Following this rule will reduce the risk of seri-
ous personal injury.
 Save these instructions. Refer to them frequently and
use them to instruct others who may use this tool. If you
loan someone this tool, loan them these instructions also.
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