Table saws cause more amputation injuries than any other single machine in Australian manufacturing. Kickback — where the workpiece is violently ejected back toward the operator — is the most common mechanism, followed by direct blade contact during ripping and cross-cutting operations. Wood dust generated during sawing contributes to cumulative carcinogenic exposure when hardwood species are processed. The WHS Regulation 2025 requires specific guarding arrangements, operator competency verification, and dust extraction at the point of generation. This template covers all table saw operations with controls mapped to the binding Managing Risks of Plant code effective 1 July 2026.
WHS Regulation 2025 Part 5.1 — Plant; Part 7.1 — Hazardous Chemicals (wood dust)
Work involving powered plant
Managing Risks of Plant in the Workplace (binding 1 July 2026 under Section 26A)
Yes — Plant code binding July 2026. Non-compliance is a standalone offence.
| Hazard | Consequence | Likelihood |
|---|---|---|
| Kickback ejecting workpiece toward operator at high velocity | Blunt trauma to chest and abdomen, fatality | Possible |
| Direct contact with spinning saw blade | Finger and hand amputation, deep laceration | Possible |
| Wood dust generation during ripping and cross-cutting | Nasal cancer (hardwood, IARC Group 1), respiratory disease | Likely |
| Noise exposure exceeding 85 dB(A) | Noise-induced hearing loss (irreversible) | Likely |
| Ejection of offcuts and small pieces | Eye injuries, facial lacerations | Possible |
Worker's hand amputated after contact with unguarded table saw blade. Riving knife and blade guard had been removed. No push sticks available at the machine.
2024 — WorkSafe Victoria Prosecution Database
Our WHS consultants develop table saw SWMS with guarding specifications and kickback prevention controls mapped to the binding Plant code.
Contact Us