Safety notes

Although care was taken in the design of this machine, no two shop-built machines will be strictly identical.

It is assumed that you are skilled in woodworking. This should not be your first woodworking project. It is also assumed that you are already familiar with the safe operation of belt sanders.

Woodgears.ca cannot be held liable for injuries that you may incur with your homemade belt sander.

Some safety tips

• Although sanding machines are relatively safe to use, there is still the potential for injury.
• The most serious risk of injury is probably from getting fingers caught in the drive belt or sanding belt. Be sure to build and install the belt guard.
• Another serious risk is from electrical shocks if the machine is not wired correctly. You should already be familiar with how to wire up a switch and motor to operate safely.
• Although the face of the belt is unlikely to result in cuts, the edge of the belt can be more dangerous, especially if it's starting to fray. Keep your fingers clear of any frayed belt edges.
• When using the sander for extended period, the use of dust collection is advisable. The sander is designed to take a 2.5" dust collector hose or a 3" dryer hose. However, a shopvac would also suffice.
• The use of a sealed motor is advisable, especially if the sander is used without dust collection.
• If you use the sander to grind metal, be sure to check that sparks have not caused a smouldering fire inside, especially if you also use it to sand wood.