CNC routers are high-powered machines that improve efficiency drastically in manufacturing settings. Unfortunately, although they are designed with user safety in mind, a lot of things can easily go wrong when operating these machines, which can lead to injury or, worse, loss of life. When operating CNC routers, it’s better to consider safety to protect yourself from potential injury. Follow these CNC router safety tips below to prevent workplace disasters and maintain a safe, productive environment.
CNC Router Safety Tips
Safety should remain a priority when operating CNC router machines. So, before beginning your operations, make sure to keep the following safety tips in mind:
Reminders Before Operating CNC Machines
- Read up on the CNC router manual to familiarize yourself with the machine, its operating instructions, and safety warnings.
- Only use the router machine for its intended purpose.
- Seek training before attempting to operate CNC router machines to avoid machine breakdown and prevent injuries.
- Wear the proper protective equipment (PPE) before turning on the machine. This includes safety goggles, ear muffs, and a dust mask. Do not use gloves.
- Remove all accessories before machine operation, which include rings, ties, watches, necklaces, and other jewelry.
- Do not wear loose clothing. If wearing a shirt with sleeves, roll up your sleeves above your elbow and secure them with a pin to prevent them from coming loose.
- Wear non-slip footwear or install anti-skid floor strips around your facility to prevent slipping accidents during machine operation.
Safety Tips While Operating CNC Machines
- Verify if the power button is turned off before plugging the machine into the power supply.
- Do not, under any circumstances, operate CNC routers when under the influence of drugs, alcohol, sleeping pills, or other medication that causes you to become drowsy.
- Do not operate a CNC router in a damp or moist environment. This eliminates any potential for electrocution and slipping accidents. Keep oils and greases away from the work floor.
- Clear the surrounding areas around CNC routers and keep them free from clutter.
- Avoid any horseplay on the work floor. Always keep your focus on the work being done.
- Never leave the room while your machine is routing. Make sure the machine is turned off before leaving. Do not leave it unattended.
- Do not put any part of your body closer than 6 inches to the cutting tool when it is moving.
- Always make sure you have inserted the correct bit for the job you are doing.
- Keep all electrical wiring away from heating equipment, sharp edges, or moving parts. Position all wirings and electrical cords in a way that doesn’t create a trip hazard. If they need to run across the work area, use a floor cord cover or cable ramp.
- Check your horsepower is suitable for the material you are cutting.
- Make sure that all workpieces are securely clamped down.
- Do not force material into the router.
- Don’t try to increase the depth of the cut by inserting less of the shank into the collet.
- If the bit acts up or breaks, shut down the machine immediately before troubleshooting the problem.
- Do not use non-routing tools, even though their shanks may fit in the collet.
Router Maintenance Tips to Maintain Equipment Safety
- Clean the machine and the floor around it after every use.
- Empty the vacuum bag frequently.
- Maintain your CNC router diligently Replace parts as necessary when they show considerable wear and tear.
Improve Workplace Safety With Reliable CNC Routers From CAMaster
At CAMaster, we know how crucial high-quality CNC routers and plasma cutters are for your industry. As a leading manufacturer and supplier of highly efficient machinery, we help you build a safer space and meet your productivity goals with our top-quality CNC machines.
We offer complete technical support and superior service to support your operations. Get in touch with our experts should you require any assistance.