Moving Parts That Must Be Guarded On Power Tools
The exposed moving parts of power tools need to be safeguarded. Belts, gears, shafts, pulleys, sprockets, spindles, drums, flywheels, chains, or other reciprocating, rotating, or moving parts of equipment must be guarded. Machine guards, as appropriate, must be provided to protect the operator and others from the following:
- point of operation (cutting, shearing, punching, etc.)
- in-running nip points
- rotating parts
- flying chips and sparks
Safety guards must never be removed or modified when a tool is being used. Follow these rules when using circular saws:
- Portable circular saws with a blade greater than 2 inches (5.08 centimeters) in diameter must be equipped at all times with guards.
- An upper guard must cover the entire blade of the saw.
- A retractable lower guard must cover the teeth of the saw, except where it makes contact with the work material.
- The lower guard must automatically return to the covering position when the tool is withdrawn from the work material.
Grooming
Protect your hair, scalp, and head. Pull back long hair in a band or a cap to keep it from getting caught in tools or moving parts. Be extremely careful with long hair when using a drill or drill press.
Power Tool Safety Tips
To prevent hazards associated with the use of power tools, OSHA recommends that workers should observe the following general precautions:
- Never carry a tool by the cord or hose.
- Never yank the cord or the hose to disconnect it from the receptacle.
- Keep cords and hoses away from heat, oil, and sharp edges.
- Disconnect tools when not using them, before servicing and cleaning them, and when changing accessories such as blades, bits, and cutters.
- Keep all people not involved with the work at a safe distance from the work area.
- Secure work with clamps or a vise, freeing both hands to operate the tool.
- Avoid accidental starting. Do not hold fingers on the switch button while carrying a plugged-in tool.
- Maintain tools with care; keep them sharp and clean for best performance.
- Follow instructions in the user’s manual for lubricating and changing accessories.
- Be sure to keep good footing and maintain good balance when operating power tools.
- Wear proper apparel for the task. Loose clothing, ties, or jewelry can become caught in moving parts.
- Remove all damaged portable electric tools from use and tag them: “Do Not Use.”
