Folks,

The topic has come up about installing foot controls on our drill presses.  I have mixed feelings about this and I was wondering what others are thinking or doing. 

I do not see a problem, as long as it is properly guarded.  It is hard to say how to guard it without knowing what material is being worked on.  Perhaps a plastic guard in front of the drill press, or have the hands in restraints like a punch press operation. 

Just remember to protect the employee from being injured.  No way for the employee to get through, around, over, or under to come in contact with the point of operation.

Good Luck

This may already be a given if you buy new foot pedals, but don't forget that the pedal needs to be guarded to prevent someone form inadvertently stepping on it.  Other than that, speaking for myself, I would pick my battles.  I think that a foot operated drill press can be made safe and if they want it, I would use it as an opportunity to show that you’re not just around to get in their way and save the opposition for something else.