Power tool safety guidelines

Only trained workers should use power tools on the job. Safe electrical work practices for power tools prevent electric shock and other injuries. Follow these electrical safety rules:. Power tools may send bits of material falling, flying, even splashing at a very fast rate. Personal protective wear needed when using power tools includes:. Good work habits ensure power tool safety, and include housekeeping and safe work practices.

Please keep in mind the following:. The other end is grounded through a prong on the plug. Anytime an adapter is used to accommodate a two-hole receptacle, the adapter wire should be attached to a known ground.

The third prong should never be removed from the plug. Double insulation is the more convenient of the two methods. The user and the tools are protected in two ways: by normal insulation on the wires inside and by a housing that cannot conduct electricity to the operator in the event of a malfunction. To protect against electrical shock hazards, the U. A GFCI constantly monitors current flowing into a circuit to sense any loss of current. If the current flowing through two circuit conductors differs by a very small amount, the GFCI instantly interrupts the current flow to prevent a lethal amount of electricity from reaching the operator.

The operator may feel a painful shock but will not be electrocuted. Most of the electrocution deaths each year associated with power drills, saws, sanders, hedge trimmers and other electric power tools could have been prevented if a GFCI had been used. Have a question about safety or our loss control services? Email us. SuperVision makes it easy for you to continually monitor your drivers and is customized to your fleet. Use the proper tool for the job. Follow the manufacturer's recommended usage.

Keep the tools in good operating condition and never use a tool in poor condition. The operator should inspect the tool prior to each use. If a central tool crib exists within the organization, the attendant should inspect each tool as it is returned. Any tool in poor condition must be repaired or replaced. The tool crib attendant should also inspect a new tool when it is received from a vendor. A proper inspection includes checking for loose fasteners and the overall condition of the tool as it may have been damaged during the shipping process.

Do not remove, reposition or tamper with safety guards provided by the manufacturer. Guards should only be removed to clean, repair or replace component parts. When the guard is removed for those reasons, disconnect the power source first. Keep tools in a safe and proper place. Tools and power cords should not be left on the floor where they present a trip hazard. Tools used in overhead areas should have a safety line attached to prevent them from falling on people below.

Never leave a power tool unattended in a place where unauthorized people could attempt to operate it. Only trained operators should use power tools. Store tools in a dry place when not in use.

Do not use electric tools in damp or wet locations unless it is properly grounded. Never carry a tool by the cord or hose.

Never yank the cord or hose to disconnect. Keep cords and hoses away from heat, oil and sharp edges.