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All other hand-held powered tools, such as circular saws, without positive accessory holding means, is required to be equipped with a constant pressure switch that will shut off the power when the pressure is released.
Grounding Electric power operated tools must either be of the approved double-insulated type, or grounded in accordance with OSHA regulations. Never use electric cords for hoisting or lowering tools.
Extension cords can be a source of contention with OSHA. You should always make sure the cords in use are grounded (with three prongs) and in top condition. Cords should not be pinched in doors or have any outward sign of damage in any form. Any cord that even appears to be slightly damaged should be discarded and replaced by a new cord.
On construction sites, extension cords are required to also have ground fault circuit interrupters, as is specified in CFR 1926.404 (b) (1) (ii).
Pneumatic Power Tools
Pneumatic power tools must be secured to the hose or whip by some positive means to prevent the tool from becoming accidentally disconnected. Never exceed the manufacturer's safe operating pressure for hoses, pipes, valves, filters, and other fittings. Never use hoses for hoisting or lowering tools. All hoses exceeding 1/2-in. inside diameter need to have a safety device at the source of supply or branch line to reduce pressure in case of hose failure.
Compressed air cannot be used for cleaning purposes, except where reduced to less than 30 psi, and then only with effective chip guarding and personal protective equipment which meets OSHA requirements. Use a diffuser nut to prevent high-pressure, high-velocity release while the nozzle tip is removed, plus a nozzle tip guard to prevent the tip from coming into contact with the operator.
Woodworking Tools
All portable, power-driven circular saws are required to be equipped with guards above and below the base plate or shoe. The upper guard must 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 has to 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 When the tool is withdrawn from the work, the lower guard must automatically and instantly return to the covering position.
The upper hood of radial saws has to completely enclose the upper portion of the blade down to a point that will include the end of the saw arbor. The upper hood should be constructed in such a manner that it will protect the operator from flying splinters, broken saw teeth, etc., and will defect sawdust away from the operator. The sides of the lower exposed portion of the blade must be guarded to the full diameter of the blade by a device that will automatically adjust itself to the thickness of the stock, and remain in contact with stock being cut to give maximum protection possible for the operation being performed.
Each hand-fed circular crosscut table saw is required to be guarded by a hood that meets all the same requirements for hoods as for circular ripsaws.
