Power Tools Overview

Types of Power Tools:
- Drills: Used for making holes; can be corded or cordless.
- Saws:
  - Circular Saw: Good for straight cuts in sheets of wood.
  - Jigsaw: Best for curved or intricate cuts.
  - Table Saw: Ideal for precise and straight cuts; requires a stable setup.
- Sanders:
  - Orbital Sander: For finishing surfaces with a smooth finish.
  - Belt Sander: For rapid material removal; used for rough surfaces.
- Router: Used for shaping edges and hollowing out areas in wood.
- Planer: Flattens and smooths wood surfaces.
Key Features to Consider:
- Power Rating: Measured in volts (V) for cordless tools or amps (A) for corded tools.
- Speed Settings: Variable speeds for different tasks.
- Weight and Ergonomics: Comfort during extended use.
Maintenance:
- Regularly clean tools to remove sawdust and debris.
- Check and replace worn-out blades and bits.
- Lubricate moving parts as needed.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Safety goggles to protect eyes from debris.
- Ear protection for loud tools.
- Dust mask or respirator to avoid inhaling sawdust.
- Gloves for hand protection, but choose wisely to avoid entanglement.
Workspace Safety:
- Keep the workspace tidy to prevent tripping hazards.
- Ensure proper lighting to see clearly.
- Avoid distractions while using power tools.
Tool-Specific Safety:
- Always read the manufacturer’s manual before using a tool.
- Unplug tools when changing accessories or making adjustments.
- Keep hands away from moving parts and blades; use push sticks for small pieces.
- Ensure guards are in place on saws and routers.
General Safety Tips:
- Wear close-fitting clothing, avoid loose garments.
- Use tools for their intended purpose only.
- Be aware of the tool's cord and potential hazards while using.
- Take regular breaks to maintain focus and avoid fatigue.

Types of Power Tools:
- Drills: Essential for creating holes; available in corded and cordless versions.
- Saws:
  - Circular Saw: Excellent for making straight cuts in large wood panels.
  - Jigsaw: Specialized for intricate or curved cutting tasks.
  - Table Saw: Delivers precise, straight cuts; requires a sturdy work surface.
- Sanders:
  - Orbital Sander: Ideal for finishing tasks, achieving a smooth surface.
  - Belt Sander: Designed for removing material quickly from rough surfaces.
- Router: Utilized for shaping edges and hollowing to create decorative profiles.
- Planer: Effective for flattening and smoothing uneven wood surfaces.
Key Features to Consider:
- Power Rating: Cordless tools rated in volts (V), corded tools in amps (A).
- Speed Settings: Variable speeds enable adaptation to different tasks.
- Weight and Ergonomics: Tools should be comfortable for prolonged use without causing strain.
Maintenance:
- Regular cleaning is essential to remove sawdust and debris build-up.
- Worn blades and bits need regular inspection and replacement.
- Lubrication of moving parts enhances performance and longevity.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Safety Goggles: Protect vision from flying debris.
- Ear Protection: Necessary for use of loud machinery to prevent hearing damage.
- Dust Mask or Respirator: Prevents inhalation of harmful sawdust particles.
- Gloves: Provide hand protection but should be chosen carefully to avoid entanglement risks.
Workspace Safety:
- Maintain a clean workspace to minimize tripping hazards.
- Ensure adequate lighting for visibility during tool operation.
- Avoid distractions to maintain focus when operating tools.
Tool-Specific Safety:
- Always review the manufacturer’s manual before tool use for safety instructions.
- Disconnect tools from power when changing accessories or making adjustments.
- Keep hands clear of moving parts and blades; use push sticks for safer handling of small wood pieces.
- Ensure protective guards on saws and routers are intact and functional.
General Safety Tips:
- Wear fitting clothing to prevent snagging; avoid loose garments while operating tools.
- Use tools solely for their intended purpose to avoid accidents.
- Remain aware of the tool's power cord and surrounding hazards during operation.
- Regular breaks help maintain concentration and reduce fatigue.