3030 – 06 – Point of Operation Safety

1m

The point of operation is where the tool meets the workpiece. A pinch point is any part of the machine where two components meet that can injure you and comes into contact with the area. Its important to not place anything in the way of the tool, and keep your extremities away from the point of operation and pinch points.

OSHA states the industry standards for protecting the point of operation on various tools. Power tools that have moving parts that are hazardous need to be safeguarded. These can include belts, gears, shafts, sprockets, drums, fly wheels and many other moving parts of equipment need to be guarded if employees are close to the danger. Many types of saws require a guard below the base plate or shoe. An upper guard must cover the teeth except where it touches the material. When the tool is apart from the workpiece, the lower guard has to automatically return to its normal position. Don’t remove a safeguard while in use.

OSHA requires different types of hand-held tools that is equipped with a sensor switch.