Cut-Off Saws (Concrete Saws)

Hand-held cut-off saws cut concrete, block, pavers, pipe and steel. They throw sparks and debris, kick back violently, and create huge amounts of silica dust.

• Construction

Before cutting

• Blade rated for the saw’s RPM and the material (diamond for concrete, abrasive for steel)
• Blade not cracked, warped or missing segments; mounted with arrows in the right direction
• Guard in place, adjusted to deflect debris away from you
• Water feed connected and working (for concrete, masonry and stone)
• Fuel cap tight; refuel cold, away from the cutting area (gas saws)
• PPE: safety glasses and face shield, hearing protection, gloves, safety boots, respirator if required

Cutting safely

• Cut wet. Silica Table 1 calls for water delivered to the blade. Add a respirator when required (for example, during longer cuts outdoors or any indoor use).
• Support the work so the cut opens up rather than pinching the blade.
• Use the lower part of the blade (the “cutting zone”). Avoid the upper quarter, which is the kickback zone.
• Stand to the side of the blade and keep a firm two-handed grip.
• Start the cut at full speed.

• Don’t cut above shoulder height.
• Don’t use gas saws indoors or in enclosed spaces. Carbon monoxide builds fast. See Carbon Monoxide.
• Don’t twist the blade or side-load it.

Last updated: October 1, 2026