In my experience, the most common tools used to cut a long scribe line is the table saw or circular saw (backwards). So, if it is the predominantlt standard used tool in the US for scribe cuts then how could anyone blame the employer for providing it. Also, there are some operations where it is mandatory to remove the guarding and this may be one of them (although so specific that it wouldn’t be mentioned in the tool manual). However, I agree that something was probably amiss in the level of education provided by the employer but that’s a major problem in the US; there is no standardized form of carpentry education so there is no trustworthy method to know if a carpenter is properly educated. I should also make the quick reminder that Osorio didn’t sue anyone, rather his insurance company is pursuing the lawsuits on his behalf.

Personally, I have cut hundreds of scribes on many different bench top table saws – all sans blade guard and fence and many that required me to simultaneously cut while walking around to the back of the saw to switch from pushing through the blade to pulling thought the blade. An admittedly very dangerous action for sure.

But, here’s the difference: I know what I am doing…. Osorio apparently didn’t.

I’m no genius but I know things like where the on/off switch is located and when to shut off the saw instead of panic. I know to be observant of climbing, excessive smoking and vibration which may lead to danger. I know where my hands should be during a cut so that they aren’t restricted if I need to simply abandon the workpiece and jump out of the way. I even know how much force the little saws put out and how much force it will take to overpower the motor and kill the breaker if necessary. I will not hesitate to completely destroy the tool and/or the work piece before either one has a chance to harm me. That’s just knowing who (what) is #1 and protecting the livelihood of Numero Uno.

DC

As I understand it, Osirio was using the table saw to scribe a board to fit a wall. Surely the appropriate tool to do this is a small (say 8″) band saw? With a chop saw used to cut boards to length.

If the event that led to Osirio’s injuries had occured here, the first recourse would have been against the employer for supplying the wrong tool (table saw rather than small band saw), or for modifying the table saw (i.e. removing the blade guard and rip fence). The issue of whether the table saw should have had “flesh sensing technology” would then not be relevant as flesh sensing or not, the table saw is the wrong tool for the job.

Ian

It’s only a matter of time until someone reports of the risks that table saws without flesh detection pose to children. Not the children!

Well, they can only have my table saw if they can pull it out of my dusty, chapped hands!!!

DC

I am pleased to see PW continue to provide information on this matter. A fact based conversation is needed.
I do believe that a third player should be added to the list of culprits. Us!
Why do we as woodworkers continue to purchase lesser products when clearly better alterative are available. At the same time funding a amazing renaissance of high quality hand tools.

Thanks again
DonP