Tools aren’t just powered by electricity; they run on compressed air, hydraulics, belts or chain drives, too. Knowing the dangers these tools are capable of is the first step in keeping you and those around you safe. 

“Power tools possess a tremendous amount of energy and, if you use them, you must control that power,” said John Gasstrom, CEO of Indiana Electric Cooperatives. “Hazards from power tools affect not only the person using them, but also to those working close by.”

There are some general practices that should be followed when using electric tools. It’s important to operate these tools within their design limitations. Always read and follow the instruction manual to ensure you are using them correctly. Before using any tool, put on gloves, appropriate footwear and eyewear, if needed. When you’re finished using it, carefully disconnect the tool, never yanking by the cord, and store it in a dry place. 

Electrical shocks, which can lead to injuries such as heart failure and burns, are among the major hazards associated with electric-powered tools. Under certain conditions, even a small amount of electric current can result in atrial fibrillation (AFib) and death. An electric shock also can cause people to fall off ladders or other elevated work surfaces and be injured due to the fall.

Do not use electric tools in damp or wet locations unless they are approved for that purpose. To protect users from shock and burns, electric tools must have a three-wire cord with a ground plugged into a grounded receptacle, be double insulated, or be powered by a low-voltage isolation transformer.

Your safety is important to us, but the power is in your hands to practice electrical safety when using equipment that can put you in harm’s way! 

Easy steps to staying safe while using electric power tools

Here are some safety steps to take when using electric power tools:

• Keep floors dry and clean to avoid slipping while working with or around dangerous power tools.
• Ensure cords aren’t a tripping hazard.
• Examine tools and cords for damage before use.
• Use tools that are double-insulated or have a three-pronged cord and are plugged into a grounded receptacle.
• Do not use electric tools in wet conditions unless they are approved for that use.
• Do not exceed the design limitation of the tool.
• Use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) or an assured grounding program.