Ornate 24" Shelf plus Firefighter Plaque Scroll Saw Patterns.

I know many of you visit primarily for the patterns, and that’s perfectly fine—you’re more than welcome here! In today’s blog, I want to briefly talk about shop fire safety and general shop safety checks. While I’m not an expert on the topic, I hope to serve as a helpful reminder to take a moment and perform those important safety checks in your workspace. Please take a couple of minutes to read my reminder—it could make a big difference!

Second Pattern Today

 

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Download the Pattern Below

It has been a while since I designed a shelf. This shelf is 24" long and 8.25" deep. All the wood is 3/4" thick. 

Over the years, several readers have emailed me with the terrible news of them losing their shop to fire. In one case the reader lost their home. Firefighters help save many folks from fire but the best solution is prevention. In most cases, the fires were one of two causes. Electrical or chemical. The video I am sharing below is about chemical fires. It is not my video but the guy does a good job giving tips to prevent the combustion. The video is just over 8 minutes.

Another piece of advice is to make checking for preventable fires a regular event. Do a quick 60-second check at the end of every shop visit. Then do a more thorough check every month. Make a list of items to check. Here is one comprehensive list. Some of these fire causes are not going to apply in all shops but check the ones that apply to your shop.

Dust Accumulation

Fine sawdust is highly flammable and can ignite from sparks, heat, or static electricity.

Dust collection systems can pose a fire risk if not properly maintained.

Overheated Equipment

Tools like table saws, planers, or sanders can overheat if used for extended periods without proper cooling or maintenance.

Bearings and motors can overheat due to wear or lack of lubrication.

Improper Storage of Flammable Materials

Storing finishes, solvents, stains, and oils improperly can lead to fires.

Rags soaked with oil or finish can spontaneously combust if not disposed of or stored safely.

Electrical Issues

Faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, or improper use of extension cords can cause electrical fires.

Dust in outlets and electrical panels can create a fire hazard.

Sparks from Cutting or Grinding Metal

If metalworking is done in the same area, sparks can ignite sawdust or other flammable materials.

Improper Use of Heat Sources

Space heaters, torches, or heat guns left unattended or placed near flammable materials can start fires.

Welding or soldering in the shop can also create a risk if not done safely.

Smoking in the Shop

Cigarettes, cigars, or other smoking materials can easily ignite sawdust, rags, or finishing products.

Static Electricity

Dust collection systems or plastic hoses can build up static electricity, which may cause an ignition.

Neglecting Maintenance

Dirty or poorly maintained tools, especially those with motors or electrical components, can become fire hazards.

Unattended Machinery or Projects

Leaving tools or machinery running without supervision can lead to overheating or friction fires.

Projects with applied finishes can ignite if not allowed to dry in a safe, ventilated area.

Improper Disposal of Waste

Oily rags, sawdust piles, and scraps can combust if not handled and disposed of properly.

Friction Fires

Dull blades, clogged belts, or jammed machinery can generate enough friction to start a fire.

Penalty Box Woodshop YouTube Channel. 

Chemical Fire Safety Video

The firefighter pattern is 8" wide and has two layers of 1/4" thick wood.

Interesting Visual App I created.

Nothing scroll saw related just more of my geekery.

 

Click Here to Start the App

Shelf Pattern

Firefighter Pattern

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