Portable power tool guards

General industry rules on machine guarding and hand and portable powered tools not specifically covered in the construction regulations. 

Grinding wheels rotate at high speeds and have the potential to break apart (explode). Thus, abrasive wheel machinery and portable power tools should only be used on machines provided with safety guards, with the following exceptions ... 

Category Guarding of Portable Powered Tools (1910.243) Abrasive wheels... 

Abrasive wheel machinery and portable power tool safety guards must cover the spindle end, nut, and flange projections, except... 

Ensure portable power tools are guarded properly. 

All portable, power-driven circular saws having a blade diameter greater than 2 inches shall be equipped with guards above and below the saw base plate or shoe. The upper guard shall cover the saw to the depth of the teeth, except for the minimum arc required to permit the base to be tilted for bevel cuts. The lower guard shall cover the saw to the depth of the teeth, except for the minimum arc required to allow proper retraction and contact with the work. When the tool is withdrawn from the work, the lower guard shall automatically and instantly return to the covering position. 

This section describes the required guarding, inspections, and maintenance requirements for hand and portable tools. It includes tools employees may own and use on the job. Lawn mowers and other internal-combustion-engine-powered machines are included in this section. The proper procedures for using portable jacks are also covered in this section. 

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