Self-adjusting lower guards on radial saws

NOTICE: This is an OSHA Archive Document, and may no longer represent OSHA Policy. It is presented here as historical content, for research and review purposes only.

February 12, 1975

Mr. Glenn Bean
Safety Officer
Physical Plant Department
Ricks College
[Recipient address omitted]
Dear Mr. Bean:

This is in response to your letter dated January 30, 1975, relative to the guarding of radial saws as required by Section 1910.213(h)(1) Woodworking Machinery Requirements - Radial Saws, of the Occupational Safety and Health Standards.

You have asked that OSHA approve or accept a plastic guard used for guarding the lower blade of your radial saws. The use of this guard is in lieu of the guard supplied by the manufacturer. Please be advised that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration does not exercise approval authority for proprietary items such as your saw guards.

The above standard requires, in part, that the sides of the lower exposed portion of the blade shall 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. It would appear from the photographs and description of the operation of the guard that this is being accomplished.

Any further questions you may have regarding this matter may be addressed to our Area Director, Mr. Richard Jackson, U.S. Department of Labor, OSHA, 228 Idaho Building, 216 North 8th Street, Bosie, Idaho 83702, telephone (208) 342-2067.

Sincerely,
Barry J. White
Associate Assistant Secretary for
Regional Programs