SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/wood-drill-chuck-key

After tightening a drill press chuck, what should you do right away?

Remove the chuck key.

Start playing free

  1. Remove the chuck key ✔
  2. Leave it in so you don't lose it
  3. Tape the key to the table

Why: A chuck key left in the chuck can be thrown when the spindle starts. OSHA's drill press training script says to remove the key as soon as you finish tightening.

Huh, didn't know that: The same OSHA script says to clamp the workpiece to the table.

The dad joke
Not all construction work is equally enjoyable. Drilling a large hole is boring, but fastening two pieces of metal together is riveting.
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: Remove the chuck key. A chuck key left in the chuck can be thrown when the spindle starts. OSHA's drill press training script says to remove the key as soon as you finish tightening.

  1. OSHA Drill Press Train the Trainer www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/2021-04/Drill%20Press%20-%20Trainer%20Script.pdf
    Be sure to remove chuck key from chuck when finished tightening it otherwise it will be thrown from chuck
    Checked 2026-10-10.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

Trades & ShopOSHA says a hand-fed circular ripsaw must be guarded by what?Trades & ShopOSHA requires hand-fed circular ripsaws to have which part to help stop wood being thrown back?Trades & ShopWhat do OSHA rules call the toothed pawls on a ripsaw that oppose kickback?

That's stuff everyone should know.