The connecting tab can be broken off to. It is not uncommon for a circuit to be configured so that two wall switches in a single double gang box control two different light fixtures.

How To Install A Double Pole Switch
Wiring diagram for a double switch. This diagram illustrates wiring for one switch to control 2 or more lights. First of all we need to go over a little terminology so you know exactly what is being discussed. For example you might want to turn on a bathroom light separately from the ceiling fan. Though it is not difficult to wire a double switch careful attention to safety is crucial to prevent injury. The source is at sw1 and 2 wire cable runs from there to the fixtures. Way in switch gang in switch and sp dp pole difference in electrical switches duration.
Multiple light wiring diagram. Wiring a double switch duration. Just a little further 10572 views. The essence of the wiring configuration is for one hot feed wire entering the switch box to be split so that it feeds both switches which in turn feed hot wires in cables that lead out to two separate light fixtures. To wire a double switch youll need to cut the power remove the old switch then feed and connect the wires into the double switch fixture. Go to my switch terminology page where i discuss the terms used for the different types of home electrical switches.
The hot and neutral terminals on each fixture are spliced with a pigtail to the circuit wires which then continue on to the next light. Wiring a 2 way switch is about as simple as it gets when it comes to basic house wiring. In a double switch you want the feed wire from the service panel to be attached to the screws on the side with the connecting tab to feed both switches.