I. Purpose & Scope
To safely and effectively provide instruction on the inspection and proper use of hot saws.
II. Definitions
Standard PPE – High Viz Garment, Hard Hat, Z-87.1 Safety Glasses, Gloves, Pants, Work Boots
III. Process
NOTE: Work instruction does not supplement the manual. For specific instructions for the exact model please refer to the owner’s manual.
A. Potential Hazards
- Hazardous Atmosphere
- Flame and/or Explosion Hazard
- Struck by Hazards
- Flying Objects Hazard
- Vibration Hazard
- Burn Hazard
- Cut Hazard
- Noise Hazard
- Respiratory Hazard
- Electromagnetic hazard
- Spark Hazard
B. PPE
- Standard PPE
- Hearing Protection
- Face Shield
- Respiratory Protection – Recommended
C. Inspection
- Inspect for damage or degradation
- Inspect Blade guards
- Check that the guard over the blade is not cracked or damaged in any other way.
- Check that the blade is fitted correctly and is not damaged in anyway.
- Inspect Diamond Blade
- Check the drive wheel is not too worn.
- Check the guide rollers are not too worn.
- Check adjustment between the rollers and blade is correct.
- Inspect throttle lockout :
- Make sure the throttle control is locked at the idle setting when the throttle lockout is released.
- Press the throttle lockout and make sure it returns to its original position when you release it.
- Check that the throttle trigger and throttle lockout move freely and that the return springs work properly.
- Start the power cutter and apply full throttle. Release the throttle control and check that the cutting blade stops and remains stationary. If the cutting blade rotates when the throttle is in the idle position you should check the carburetor’s idle adjustment.
- Inspect Stop Switch
- Start the engine and make sure the engine stops when you move the stop switch to the stop setting.
D. Use
START THE ENGINE
- Grip the front handle with your left hand. Put your right foot on the lower section of the rear handle pressing the machine against the ground. Never twist the starter cord around your hand.
- Grip the starter handle, slowly pull out the cord with your right hand until you feel some resistance ( the starter pawls grip), now quickly and powerfully pull the cord.
- With a cold engine: The machine stops when the engine fires because the choke control is pulled out. Press the choke control and the decompression valve. Pull the starter handle until the engine starts.
- When the engine starts, quickly apply full throttle to automatically disengage fast idle.
STARTING
- Stop Switch: Make sure that the stop switch is in the left position.
- Start Throttle position – cold engine: Start throttle position and choke is obtained by pulling out the choke completely.
- Start throttle position – warm engine: The correct choke/start throttle setting is obtained by pulling the choke control to the choke position and then pushing it in again. This only engages the start throttle setting without any choke.
- Air purge: Press the air purge diaphragm repeated until fuel fills the diaphragm (at least 6 times). The diaphragm need not be completely filled.
Operating Basic techniques
- Remain at a distance from the blade when the engine is running.
- The guard for the cutting equipment should be adjusted so that the rear section is flush with the work piece.
- Keep good balance and a firm foothold.
- Always hold the machine in a firm grip with both hands. Hold it so that the thumbs and fingers grip round the handles.
- Apply the cutting blade gently with high rotating speed (full throttle). Maintain full speed until cutting is complete.
- Let the machine work without forcing or pressing the blade.
- Feed the machine in line with the blade.
- Move the blade slowly backwards and forwards to give a small contact surface between the blade and material to be cut.
STOPPING
- Stop the engine by moving the stop switch to the right.
E. Maintenance
- Clean the external parts of the hot saw with clean water after each use.
- Clean the air intake after each use.
F. Live Line Contact
- Immediately stop work.
- Treat equipment, attachments and ground as energized.
- Warn people nearby that an electric strike has occurred.
- DO NOT exit equipment and stay inside cab while contact or arcing is occurring.
- Ensure equipment is barricaded.
- If there is an immediate hazard (i.e. fire hazard) that requires the exiting of equipment employee shall jump out of equipment with both feet together, landing on the ground.
- Employee shall than shuffle away from equipment, not walk or run, taking small steps and feet together to minimize voltage difference in the ground until they reach a safe location.
(Performed by Authorized Personnel Only)
Manufacturer: Husqvarna
Model: K970
| Potential Energy Hazards | Method of Neutralizing Energy | Permits Required |
|---|---|---|
Lockout (Shut-Down Procedure)
- Turn off engine and place the stop switch in the STOP Position.
