Picture a
table saw and how quick and powerful it actually is. If you have used this tool
in the past, then you probably know how strong it is and how, at the same time,
it can be dangerous. It is because of this risk that a safety switch should be used when one uses such a powerful tool.
Problems
arise once a power tool user fails to keep his eyes on the board. The table saw
(and other such dangerous tools) should be controlled at all times. Minus a perfect
control, then you end up with an erroneous cut on the wood or worse, cutting up
your hand. Since the switch is located at the side, you will notice that there
will always be a split second gap right before the power saw is completely
turned off.
There are
now many people who have realized the savings that they can have if they learn
to prioritize safety in the workplace. If you believe in safety for both your
body and your project, then you need an accessory that may be small but it can
help you power off your table saw easily.
It is
advisable that you invest in safety switches that you can use to power on or
off with a single flick. Just give this switch a touch and your table saw
should stop rotating almost immediately as the electrical supply is cut. All
this happens without you running off to a different direction as the saw
dangerously runs on.
How the Safety Switch Works
Safety
switches monitor electrical flow within a circuit. It shuts off or trips
whenever current escapes from the electrical system. These devices are designed
to protect people from power surges, faulty appliances and even damaged wiring.
Every premise or home has a switchboard that comes with a main switch. Along
with this is a wide array of circuit breaker switches that are often located
right behind a cover in a centralized place.
Switches
are generally associated with such switchboards although it must never be
confused with other kinds of switches. They differ from these switches since
circuit breakers are utilized to protect appliances from power surges while
safety switches are manufactured to protect people from getting electrocuted.
Apart from
installing this kind of switch when working with powerful, bulky tools, it is
also important to remember these safety guidelines –
- Only a licensed electrician should be allowed to work with electrical projects.
- It is never safe to overload power points whether at home or in commercial places.
- Ensure that your place is safe against electrocution and shocks especially when you have elderly or younger people at home.
- Never mix appliances with water.
- Have your electrical appliances regularly checked and maintained by an electrician.
- Have your wiring system frequently checked by an electrician.
Three Types of Residual Current
Device
Although
safety switches are often referred to as such, they are also known as residual
current devices. There are three kinds of such switches –
- The switchboard-mounted switches
- The power point safety switches
- Portable switches
The
switchboard-mounted type is, as its name suggests, installed to a switchboard.
They are used to protect selected circuits and appliances that are plugged into
them. The second type is the kind that was installed in many older homes. Such
switches were attached instead to an outlet and it protects appliances that are
plugged into it. To ensure safety, a power point switches must only be
installed on the primary power point right after the circuit board. These are
often used in higher risk areas such as the bathroom or workshops.
The last
type or portable switches are devices that are crucial for those who need to
transport their power tools. These act like extension cords as they attach to
the power point while offering a female opening on the other end.
