I use a splitter at all times on my tablesaw. And I paid for a really nice blade (cost me 150.00) with carbide teeth and everything (A Woodworker II I believe). The key to safety on a table say is to pay attention where your fingers are, square your blade to the fence and miter slots, and a splitter (or a Riving knife). I use the Micro Jig full kerf splitter.

Jason