Power Tools: An Essential Guide to Staying Safe

Recent years have seen an increase in the number of people taking an active interest in Do It Yourself or DIY around the home. For many people DIY activities range from re-decorating a room in their home, to fitting a kitchen or even erecting a new garden shed. One thing that all of these tasks have in common is that they require the assistance of tools. History has shown that man has been using tools since the prehistoric period to help carry out tasks that would be impossible to do without the assistance of power or hand tools.

The use of powerful machinery and technology does however bring with it some risks to the personal safety of those using the tool and those around them whilst the power tool is in use. When used inappropriately power tools can be extremely hazardous and potentially lethal machines so it is essential that you are fully aware of both the risks and how to prevent them.

Most people assume that the most direct risk of using a power tool such as a circular saw or a drill is the machine itself and they forget about other potential risks such as tripping over the electric cable or getting sawdust in their eyes. Remember when using a power tool the safety aspects of the environment also need to be taken in to consideration. Some environmental safety hazards when working with power tools include:

• Space – How much room do you have in the area in which you are working? People who are not directly involved in the task that you are completing should leave the area if possible whilst you are using power tools.

• Mains power condition – For electric power tools the condition of the main power line is extremely important as a spark could potentially cause a serious accident.

• Stability – How stable is the area you are working in?  For example, you should not use a power tool whilst up a ladder or uneven ground.

• Cleanliness – Always try and ensure that the area is clean and free from any debris that could be a trip hazard and cause you to fall over with the power tool still in operation.

• Lighting - When using any power tool you should always ensure that the area is well lit.

Once you have established that the environment you are working in is safe you then need to concentrate on preparing yourself to use the power tool in question. It is essential that when working with any power tool that you do not wear any loose fitting clothing or jewellery as these could become caught on the power tool and cause you some serious damage. You should always wear protective eye goggles and ear protection when using any power tool and be sure to read all the manufacturers instructions before use. Some other points to remember when using power tools are:

• Always disconnect all power tools when not in use and when changing any accessories.

• Never carry corded power tools around by the power cord.

• Always disconnect all power tools for cleaning and maintenance purposes.

• Never use broken or damaged power tools.

• Always ensure that power tools are stored correctly and in appropriate conditions.

• Never use power tools in damp conditions.

Once you have read this list of basic safety tips you should be ready to use your power tools safely. However, please note that this list is not a definitive list and you should read the safety and instruction manuals that accompany each power tool before you use them. One final tip to keep you safe when using power tools is to purchase them from a reputable source.

Diytools.com is the UK’s leading online power tool supplier supplying a comprehensive range of high quality power tools to both the UK DIY and professional trade market. To view the full range of power tools available please visit us at www.diytools.com.

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Powertek Tools Ltd (Bushey) Pinner Road Opposite Bushey Train Station Watford WD19 4EB United Kingdom