• What should you do before using a drill press?
• What are some safe work practices to know when using a drill press?
• What are some things you should avoid doing?

What should you do before using a drill press?

Drill presses can be dangerous if not used properly.

• Read the owner's manual carefully.
• Make sure you understand the instructions and are properly trained before operating a drill press.

Refer to Metalworking Machines - General for basic safety tips.

What are some safe work practices to know when using a drill press?

• Wear appropriate safety glasses.
• Ensure that the drill press has a start/stop button within easy reach of the operator.
• Use a vacuum, brush or rake to remove cuttings.
• Remove burrs and chips from a drilled hole. When making deep holes, clean out the hole frequently.
• Use a clamp or drill vise to prevent work from spinning.
• Make sure the drill bit or cutting tool is locked securely in the chuck. Remove the chuck key before starting the drill press.
• Lubricate drill bit when drilling metal.

• Reduce the drilling pressure when the drill begins to break through the workpiece. This action prevents drill from pulling into the work and breaking.
• Keep drill bits clean and sharp. Dull drills are a common cause of breakage.
• Keep floor around the drill press free of oil and grease.
• Keep the working surface clean of scraps, tools and materials.
• Keep guards in place and in good working order.

• Shut off power before removing the drill bit.

Refer to portable hand drills for additional information.

What are some things you should avoid doing?

• Do not wear any loose clothing or ties. Roll sleeves above the elbow to prevent them from being caught in revolving parts. Confine long hair.
• Do not wear gloves, rings, watches, or bracelets while working with a drill press.
• Do not set speeds, adjust, or measure work until machine is completely stopped.
• Do not force the drill with extra pressure.
• Do not leave chuck key in drill chuck. Make adjustments and remove key immediately.
• Do not hold work by hand when drilling holes larger than 12 mm (1/2 in.) in diameter.
• Do not place hands under the stock being drilled.
• Do not stop rotation of chuck and spindle with your hand.
• Do not remove a broken drill with a centre punch and hammer.
• Do not leave the drill press running unattended.

Want more information?

Document last updated on June 1, 2011

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