Push sticks or push blocks should be used when operating standard woodworking machinery, including table saws, band saws, radial arm saws, jointer/planers and shapers. These sticks protect the hand while allowing good hand control of the stock as it is pushed through the cutting head or blade. Push blocks for Jointer/Planers should be constructed for two-handed positioning.

Hold-down push blocks should:

• be rigid
• enable the operator to protect both hands
• allow the operator to exert a firm and steady pressure on the work piece.

The following are samples of push blocks.

• Simple push sticks are useful on a table saw when distance between the blade and fence is narrow.