Dear editor,I appreciate Mr. Knowles' critique of the apprentice operating a table saw as displayed in the Record (Feb. 23).Mr. Knowles is correct if the apprentice was performing a rip cut. However, the apprentice is instead cutting a small rabbet into the edge of the board. The operation was set up and demonstrated by the instructor prior to the student undertaking the cut.  WorkSafe BC's regulation 12.60 (2) states that kickback fingers or spreaders are not required when performing this type of cut, and in fact, the cut cannot be made with that safety equipment in place. Hence the splitter/guard assembly has been removed for that operation and is sitting on the table extension as was noted.The dado blade is positioned under a sacrificial fence with only that portion of the blade required for the cut revealed. The material measures eight inches wide, which is normally considered to be of sufficient distance to prevent risk of injury for this operation. A feather board on top of the cutting area would provide additional protection for the operator.The apprentice was wearing DeciDamp Ear Plugs for hearing protection, which we provide to ensure everyone in the shop is protected. As safety is everyone's responsibility and always our first priority, we appreciate any opportunity to review our safety procedures and welcome this type of constructive criticism.Don Gillingham,Campbell RiverEditor's note: Don Gillingham is dean, trades and technologies, at North Island College.