Before operating a lathe, please understand that a lathe can be a very dangerous machine, when not operated safely. In conjunction with turning, often other potential dangerous situations arise. To this end, we highly recommend you consult the AAW website's Resource Directory for a complete review of lathe safety guidelines. In addition, you will find on their site other safety related information regarding wood toxicity and dust collection . The GVWG has produced or references other important safety related articles below.

LATHE SAFETY

Fire safety in the shop OR... Smokey the Bear meets Red Green

Fire safety for woodturners  

Spontaneous combustion

Stay healthy - dust collection for woodturners

NIOSH

More on dust collection

Chainsaw safety

Wood toxicity

Guild Member Demonstrating

In addition, the woodturner may use other machines such as bandsaws and rotary carvers and many others. Please make sure you understand their intended use and limitations and adhere to all safety precautions including personal protective equipment.