When using a drill press to drill near the end of a ruler, which safety practice should you follow to secure the workpiece?

When using a drill press to drill near the end of a ruler, which safety practice should you follow to secure the workpiece?

• A. Securely clamp the workpiece in a vise
• B. Hold it by hand
• C. Use a magnet
• D. Place it on the table without a clamp

Answer: (A)

When drilling with a drill press, immobilizing the workpiece is crucial, especially near the end of a long piece like a ruler. Clamping the workpiece securely in a vise provides a rigid, stable grip that prevents movement as the bit engages, ensuring the hole is drilled exactly where you intend and shielding your hands from the rotating tool. Holding it by hand is dangerous because the drill can grab the edge and pull fingers into the bit. A magnet might help with some ferrous parts, but it won’t reliably secure a long, edge-heavy piece during drilling. Placing the piece on the table without a clamp allows shifting or kickback, risking misalignment or injury. So, securely clamp the workpiece in a vise before drilling.

When drilling with a drill press, immobilizing the workpiece is crucial, especially near the end of a long piece like a ruler. Clamping the workpiece securely in a vise provides a rigid, stable grip that prevents movement as the bit engages, ensuring the hole is drilled exactly where you intend and shielding your hands from the rotating tool. Holding it by hand is dangerous because the drill can grab the edge and pull fingers into the bit. A magnet might help with some ferrous parts, but it won’t reliably secure a long, edge-heavy piece during drilling. Placing the piece on the table without a clamp allows shifting or kickback, risking misalignment or injury. So, securely clamp the workpiece in a vise before drilling.