Summary of Safe Operating Procedures for the Drill Press (printable version)
Install drills in the chuck to their full depth.
If the drill is not equipped with a keyless chuck, use a chuck key to secure the drill tight.
Do not leave the key in the chuck.
Use only standard twist drills for metal. Do not use brad point or Forstner bits in metal
Adjust the table to the proper height and angle.
It is generally best to place a sacrificial board on top of the table to prevent drilling holes in the metal table and to prevent splintering the bottom of your stock when the bit drills through.
Set the depth stop to prevent drilling into the table
If using a sacrificial board is not practical, make sure the hole in the table is in line with the drill bit.
Adjust the speed of the drill press according to the size of the bit and the material being drilled. See posted charts.
For variable speed drills, always adjust the speed while the drill is running.
Always clamp small pieces of wood onto the table or support them against a fence.
If a drill bit catches in the wood, turn off the drill press and wait until it comes to a complete stop, before attempting to dislodge it.
Do not force the bit into the wood stock. Always apply a slow, steady pressure.
If a bit does not seem to be drilling properly, ask the Shop Supervisor to check it for sharpness
If a deep hole is required, withdraw the bit frequently to cool the bit and clear the shavings.
When operating a drill press always keep your fingers at a safe distance from the drill bit.
Use a brush to remove shavings from the table.
Never leave the drill press until it has come to a full stop