Lower Guard Function; Residual Risks - DeWalt DCS577 Manual

backwards, but kickback forces can be controlled by the
operator, if proper precautions are taken.
b ) 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.
c ) 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.
d ) 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.
e ) Do not use dull or damaged blades. Unsharpened
or improperly set blades produce narrow kerf causing
excessive friction, blade binding and kickback.
f ) 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.
g ) Use extra caution when sawing into existing walls or
other blind areas. The protruding blade may cut objects
that can cause kickback.

Lower Guard Function

a ) 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.
b ) 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.
c ) 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.
d ) 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.
Additional Specific Safety Instructions for
Circular Saws

WARNING: Do not allow familiarity (gained from
frequent use of your saw) to replace safety rules. Always
remember that a careless fraction of a second is sufficient
to inflict severe injury.
• 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.
• Keep your body positioned to either side of the blade,
but not in line with the saw blade. KICKBACK could cause
the saw to jump backwards (see Kickback Causes and
Related Warnings and Kickback).
• Avoid cutting nails. Inspect for and remove all nails from
lumber before cutting.
• Always make sure nothing interferes with the movement
of the lower blade guard.
• Install the dust extraction port onto the saw before use.
• Accessories must be rated for at least the speed
recommended on the tool warning label. Wheels and
other accessories running over rated speed can fly apart and
cause injury. Accessory ratings must always be above tool
speed as shown on tool nameplate.
• Always make sure the saw is clean before using.
• Stop using this saw and have it properly serviced if any
unusual noise or abnormal operation occcurs.
• Always be sure all components are mounted properly and
securely before using tool.
• Always handle the saw blade with care when mounting or
removing it or when removing the diamond knockout.
• Always wait until the motor has reached full speed before
starting a cut.
• Always keep handles dry, clean and free of oil and grease. Hold
the tool firmly with both hands when in use.
• Always be alert at all times, especially during repetitive,
monotonous operations. Always be sure of position of your
hands relative to the blade.
• Stay clear of end pieces that may fall after cutting off. They
may be hot, sharp and/or heavy. Serious personal injury
may result.

Residual Risks

In spite of the application of the relevant safety regulations
and the implementation of safety devices, certain residual risks
cannot be avoided. These are:
• Impairment of hearing.
• Risk of personal injury due to flying particles.
• Risk of burns due to accessories becoming hot
during operation.
• Risk of personal injury due to prolonged use.
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