Machine routers are extremely versatile machines. They are generally used to cut grooves in natural wood and manmade boards. They have a cutter that rotates at high speed - as the operator pushes the router forwards the cutter removes the wood in its path. They can be very dangerous if not used with care and attention to safety rules.

1. The mains electric cord is carried over the shoulder of the operator so that it does not get in the way of the router as it is pushed forward.
2. It is good practice to use a circuit breaker. This will cut power if any electrical fault in the router is detected.
3. Always wear safety goggles to protect the eyes. Never operate equipment like this without eye protection. Wear a face mask to prevent breathing in the dust that is created.
4. Hold both handles when using the router. It is possible to switch the router on/off with the thumb of the left hand (see example above).
5. Push the router forward slowly. Look carefully at the diagram shown above - this shows the direction to move router. If this is done incorrectly, the wood will be pulled into the cutter rapidly. This can be very dangerous and it will also damage the wood being worked on.
6. Always seek instruction / training from an appropriately qualified instructor before using any tools, especially power tools.

The diagram below shows a typical machine router. A wide range of cutters are available and they are fitted in the collet, using a couple of small spanners.

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