Summary Statement
After two accidents, Oregon OSHA warns users of portable cutoff-type industrial circular saws to use only diamond or abrasive blades, and use them only when functioning guards are in place.
2003
OR-OSHA HAZARD
ALERT
April 7, 2003
Two reports of circular saw blades coming free from cutoff type industrial saws have come to Oregon OSHA's attention. These two incidents happened in the Portland area and underscore the need for caution by users of such equipment. This type of portable saw is typically used by local fire departments and emergency service providers. In each of these cases, saw blades that were not recommended by the manufacturer broke loose from the saw and flew off. This poses obvious hazards to the user and any workers or others near the saw. It is important that the equipment you use is appropriate and authorized for that use by the manufacturer.
Stihl Inc. cautions users not to use carbide tipped, wood cutting or circular saw blades as they can cause severe personal injury from reactive forces, blade contact or thrown tips. Oregon OSHA agrees with the manufacturers. The only blades that are safe to use with these type of saws are diamond blades and abrasive blades, both of which are the blades recommended for use by the manufacturer. Other types of blades require additional blade guarding.
Remember when using woodcutting blades on any type of circular saw you must comply with the following rules:
§1910.243 GUARDING OF PORTABLE POWERED TOOLS.
-
(a)(1)(i)
All portable, power-driven circular saws having a blade diameter greater
than 2 inches shall be equipped with guards above and below the 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 When the tool is withdrawn from the work, the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 covering position.
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