Push Stick
A push stick is a basic but critical safety tool used in woodworking to protect workers when operating power tools, especially table saws and similar cutting machines. It's like a helper hand that lets woodworkers guide wood through machines while keeping their fingers safely away from dangerous cutting areas. When you see this term in resumes, it often indicates that the candidate prioritizes workplace safety and follows proper safety procedures. Related terms might include "safety equipment" or "shop safety tools."
Examples in Resumes
Trained new employees on proper use of Push Stick and other safety equipment
Designed and implemented custom Push Stick templates for specialized cutting operations
Maintained and regularly updated Push Stick inventory for workshop safety compliance
Typical job title: "Woodworkers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Woodworkers
Online Communities
Professional Organizations
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you design a safety training program for push stick usage in a large workshop?
Expected Answer: A good answer should cover creating documented procedures, demonstration sessions, regular safety audits, and maintaining training records. They should mention different types of push sticks for different operations.
Q: What considerations go into selecting or designing push sticks for different woodworking operations?
Expected Answer: The candidate should discuss material choice, ergonomics, visibility, grip design, and how different operations require different push stick designs for maximum safety and efficiency.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are the key safety rules when using push sticks?
Expected Answer: Should explain keeping hands away from danger zones, proper positioning, when to use multiple push sticks, and maintaining good push stick condition.
Q: How do you maintain and inspect push sticks?
Expected Answer: Should cover regular inspection for damage, cleaning procedures, proper storage, and when to replace worn push sticks.
Junior Level Questions
Q: When should you use a push stick?
Expected Answer: Should mention using push sticks whenever hands would come within 6 inches of a blade, for small pieces, and during ripping operations on a table saw.
Q: What makes a push stick unsafe to use?
Expected Answer: Should identify damaged handles, worn gripping surfaces, cracked or split materials, and improper size for the operation.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic push stick usage
- Understanding of basic shop safety
- Knowledge of when push sticks are required
- Simple maintenance of safety equipment
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced safety technique implementation
- Multiple push stick operation mastery
- Safety training assistance
- Custom push stick modification
Senior (5+ years)
- Safety program development
- Push stick design and creation
- Workshop safety management
- Safety training program oversight
Red Flags to Watch For
- Reluctance to use safety equipment
- History of workplace safety incidents
- Lack of basic safety knowledge
- Disregard for proper tool maintenance
Related Terms
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