Safety for beginners

• Never work on the lathe if you are feeling tired or unwell.
• Never have any loose clothing or hair that may catch in the lathe.
• Always make sure that the wood is firmly attached either between centres, in the chuck or on the faceplate.
• Make sure that the speed setting is suitable for the wood you are turning. If you are unsure, start at a slow speed and slowly work up to a speed that you are comfortable with. If the speed concerns you, then it is running too fast. Remember : you can only turn at higher speeds when the piece is running true and symmetrical. Offset pieces can and will tear away from their holdings if revolving too fast.
• Adjust the toolrest to its correct position and tighten up.
• Rotate the piece at least one complete revolution to ensure that it does not catch either on the lathe bed or on the toolrest.
• Always wear a visor or eye protection.
• Remove any loose pieces of bark prior to switching on the lathe.
• Finally, stand out of the flight path of the piece when switching on.