The Requirements for Guarding Foam-Cutting Band Saws

• A band saw is a type of saw found in the workshop that has the ability to cut through metal, wood and foam. The band saw contains a pair of rubber wheels inside that allow a flexible metal blade strip to spin around fast allowing it to cut the material. Foam-cutting band saws have larger teeth and the table has the ability to be titled at an angle. In order to make a band saw safe for the user, a band saw has a set of requirements for the guards it uses to minimize the risk of injury.
  
  

Saw Guide

• The upper saw guide must be adjustable so that it can cover the exposed blade. The upper saw guide should be adjustable so that it can move up and down and only expose the amount of blade needed for the thickness of the foam, especially since foam comes in different thicknesses.
  
  

Wheel Cabinet

• The wheel cabinet must be able to close and lock properly to prevent exposing the rotating blade. An exposed wheel can be dangerous, especially if the blade snaps.
  
  

Dust Port

• Cutting foam can create a lot of dust that is harmful to the eyes and to the lungs. Usually dust ports are integrated into the band saw but sometimes you will need to purchase one separately.