Sawmills eTool
Saws » Gang Saws
A gang rip saw is a circular blade machine, usually of radial design, used for cutting across and above the stock. Stock is fed in front of the machine on a feed table with rolls and guides.
Operator Involvement
This saw requires the operator to position the stock, hold it stationary, then grasp the sawing mechanism and pull it across the stock. After the cut is complete, the blade must return to its original position behind the stock. The stock is then repositioned for the next cut.
Gang saws
Hazard/Solutions
Contact with the moving blade or machinery may occur.
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Cranks, pitman rods, and other moving parts must be adequately guarded. 1910.265(e)(2)(v)(a)
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Feed rolls must be enclosed by a cover over the top, front, and open ends, except where guarded by location. Drive mechanism to feed rolls must be enclosed. 1910.265(e)(2)(v)(b)
Logs may kickback and strike the operator.
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Ensure that carriage cradles of whole-log sash gang saws (Swedish gangs), are of adequate height to prevent logs from kicking out while being loaded. 1910.265(e)(2)(v)(c)