What indicates the need to remove guards on power tools?

The correct choice highlights that removing guards on power tools is necessary when changing bits and blades. This makes sense because the guard is designed to protect the user from moving parts and potential hazards while the tool is in operation. When changing a bit or a blade, the tool must be turned off and unplugged to ensure safety. This provides an opportunity to remove the guard, allowing for easier access to the components that need to be changed.

Understanding the context around this procedure is essential. Guards are critical safety features that prevent accidental contact with spinning bits or blades during operation. However, when a user is intentionally changing these components, temporarily removing the guard provides a safer way to perform this maintenance task, provided that all safety precautions are observed.

Other options, such as cleaning the tool, conducting routine maintenance, or storing the tool, typically do not require the removal of guards and can often be performed while the guards remain in place. Keeping guards on during these activities enhances safety by preventing accidents and ensuring that the tool remains protected from contaminants.