Sawmill Operator how-to

How to Change a Band Saw Blade Safely

Blade changes are high risk.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Blade changes are high risk. In short: lock; release; remove, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Lock out.

  2. Release tension.

  3. Remove the old blade.

  4. Install the new blade.

  5. Tension and track.

  6. Test.

Safety reminders for sawmill operators

  • Lock out before clearing jams
  • Wear hearing and eye protection
  • Use guards
  • Control dust

Head rig · Sawyer · Cant · Edger · Trimmer · Optimizer: see the full sawmill operator glossary.

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