Wash. Admin. Code § 296-807-11005 - Make sure switches are safe

(1) You must make sure the operating switch is located in a position that makes it difficult to accidentally operate the tool.

(2) You must use the correct operating switch.

(a) Make sure hand-held gasoline-powered chain saws have a constant pressure throttle control that will shut off power to the chain when the pressure is released.

(b) Use a constant pressure switch that will shut off the power when the switch is released to turn on or operate any hand-held power tool.

Exemptions:

Some tools can use a lock-on feature with the constant pressure switch if the lock-on feature can be turned off with a single motion of the same finger(s) that turned it on. You can use a lock-on feature with these hand-held tools:

1. Drills;

2. Tappers;

3. Fastener drivers;

4. Grinders using a wheel greater than two inches in diameter;

5. Disc sanders;

6. Belt sanders;

7. Reciprocating saws;

8. Saber, scroll and jig saws using a blade with a shank width greater than one-quarter inch;

9. Other similarly operating powered tools.

Exemptions:

You can use a positive "on-off" switch with these handheld tools:

1. Platen sanders;

2. Grinders using a wheel two inches or less in diameter;

3. Routers;

4. Planers;

5. Laminate trimmers;

6. Nibblers;

7. Shears;

8. Saber, scroll, and jig saws using a blade with a shank width of one-quarter inch (± .05 inch) or less.

Note:

The shank width of saber, scroll and jig saw blades is measured at the narrowest point on the blade shank.

Notes

Wash. Admin. Code § 296-807-11005

Amended by WSR 15-23-086, Filed 11/17/2015, effective 12/18/2015

Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].040,[49.17].050, and [49.17].060. 03-09-009, § 296-807-11005, filed 4/4/03, effective 8/1/03.