What should you always do before changing the blade or bit on a power tool?

Before changing the blade or bit on a power tool, it is crucial to unplug the tool as a primary safety measure. This action ensures that there is no chance of accidental activation while you are working on the tool, thus preventing potential injuries. Many accidents occur due to power tools being unintentionally started during maintenance. Unplugging the tool eliminates all electrical power, creating a safer environment for performing adjustments or replacements.

While turning off the tool is an important step, it does not provide a complete guarantee of safety, as there can still be residual power in the system or a chance of a malfunction that could lead to the tool starting unexpectedly. Locking the trigger or putting on safety glasses are also good safety practices, but they do not address the primary concern of preventing accidental operation during the blade or bit change.

Hence, unplugging the tool is the most effective step in ensuring the user’s safety when preparing to change blades or bits.