Q: When we have to change a skill saw blade onsite, we obviously would unplug the tool but, do we need to have a lock out tag out box to clamp around the plug end so that no one can plug the item back in while it is being swapped out?
A: Other than unplugging the piece of equipment nothing else needs to be done to change the blade in the saw. OSHA’s 29 CFR 1910.147 standard goes over the requirements that are required for the control of hazardous energy (lockout/tagout). The standard does not apply to a piece of equipment that has only a cord and plug for a source of energy.
· 1910.147(a)(2)(iii) This standard does not apply to the following:
o 1910.147(a)(2)(iii)(A)
Work on cord and plug connected electric equipment for which exposure to the hazards of unexpected energization or start up of the equipment is controlled by the unplugging of the equipment from the energy source and by the plug being under the exclusive control of the employee performing the servicing or maintenance.
Although it is not required, placing a lock and tag on the saw would go beyond OSHA’s requirements and would be a good safe work practice that we recommend.
