Safety Rules When Operating Power Tools
Betontools Blog
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The first word in the phrase “Power Tools” is a major clue that they have the potential to do harm. Too often, people overlook the recommended safety precautions, particularly when the job is classed as just a “little something”, with little to no obvious risk.
Unfortunately, the risk is always present. Every time you plug in a power tool, there is a risk of electric shock, serious cuts, damage to your eyes or hearing, or even fire. If you don’t take the time to observe the safety rules, you, or people around you, could end up paying a seriously heavy price.
But don't fear. Just by following a few simple rules, you can make using power tools safer for you and everyone around you.
- Use the Right Power Tools for the Job – Staying on the right side of this rule is easy - just assess what jobs you have to do ahead of time, and buy the tools you need before you start. This way, you won't get caught out midway through a project, and end up improvising with another tool altogether. It goes without saying that each tool is designed for a specific use. Using heavy duty concrete tools on tin or a household drill on concrete, is a recipe for disaster. When a tool gets away from you, it can do significant damage before you even realise what happened.
- Keep Your Tools Well Maintained – Keep tools clean, blades sharp, and electrical wiring intact. Never use power tools with frayed cords. Keep the moving parts lubricated and in optimal condition. Always check your tools over before you use them and after you finish a project. Also, when working with something like concrete tools that tend to get covered in cement during the project, remember to clean them off frequently to prevent damage to your project and to the tool.
- Keep Track of the Power Cord – Keep the cord away from sharp objects, like the blades or drill bit of the power tool. Never use the cord to lift the tool, or expose it to heat and water. Always unplug the tool when you aren’t using it, but never pull on the cord to do so.
- Keep Them Grounded – Power tools with three pronged plugs include a ground wire. Never attempt to use these plugs in a two pronged outlet, or in any outlet without a ground wire.
- Work in a Secure Work Area – That means staying out of wet weather and ensuring the working site is clear of other people. Only work where you have firm footing and where there is no risk of losing your balance. Working in awkward positions or trying to reach out too far can lead to falls, or you losing your grip on the power tool.
Power tools make it easy and enjoyable to perform otherwise arduous project tasks, but they also have a role in many serious accidents every year. Most of these accidents could have been prevented by simply following the basic safety rules.
Betontools has the right power tools and concrete tools to make your next project safer and more efficient. Contact us today.
