MONTHLY SAFETY FOCUS JUNE 2013 POWER TOOLS

for more info contact H&S Team

Pre-use inspection

� Check if PAT Testing (Portable Appliance Testing) is in place and updated.

� When PAT Testing is out of date, take your equipment back to the store (or site

electrician)

� Check your equipment daily ie cable for damage, casing for damage

� Report all defects

Using � Use only 110v (or battery powered) portable electrical equipment on site

� Do not use any powered hand tools unless trained and authorised

� Be aware of the vibration effects of hand tools and comply with the HAVS risk

assessment requirements (Hand-Arm Vibration).

� Observe PPE requirements such as high-impact eye protection or hearing protection (refer to the risk assessment).

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MONTHLY SAFETY FOCUS JUNE 2013 POWER TOOLS

for more info contact H&S Team

Abrasive Wheels � Only grinding machines that are compliant with the

Provision & Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 to be brought onto site.

� All safety guarding to be correctly adjusted and only the correct speed rating discs to be fitted by competent, trained persons.

� Choose the correct wheel such as these 2 common British types:

- A.30.R.BF Suitable for general use on ferrous metals

- C.24.R.BF Suitable for general use on stone, brickwok, concrete, plastic and non-ferrous metals

On each wheel, it should be noted that this is “use by date”, and not “sell by date”, after which even unused wheels should be discarded.

The 2 main causes of abrasive wheels bursting are:

� Over speeding � The incorrect mounting of wheels

If there is any defect in work equipment (abrasive wheels, guards or tool rest), DON’T USE the tool and report it to the supervisor.

Cartridge Tools � Only low power indirect tools are to be used on site

by certified persons

� Cartridge tools and cartridges must be stored securely and a log must be maintained on issue and returns.

� They must not be used in areas where a flammable atmosphere or risk of dust explosion may exist.

� Ensure that the strength is known by operator via colour code.

Compressed air Ensure that restraining devices such as whipchecks must be installed on all diameter compressed air hoses to prevent them thrashing about in the event of a hose or coupling failure.

MONTHLY SAFETY FOCUS JUNE 2013 POWER TOOLS

for more info contact H&S Team

Hand-Arm Vibration (HAV)

Several tools (e.g cut-off-saw, drills, grinder...) have a potential to cause serious health problems. The seriousness depends on:

- Frequency of use - Time of use

Hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) is caused by prolonged use of hand-held powered work equipment. HAVS affects your fingers, hands and arms. Symptoms may include Raynaud's phenomenon (this is the 'white finger' part), nerve damage, and muscular aches and pains.

How to avoid HAVs: � Use suitable low-vibration tools � Use the right tool for each job � Check tools before using them to make sure they have been properly

maintained and repaired to avoid increased vibration � Implement job rotation � Ensure label showing Trigger time (Exposure Action Value) is in place prior to

use:

Colour code system in place for label: - Red: As per Risk Assessment - Amber: Up to 2 hrs - Green: Up to 8 hrs

• Record Exposure on form C3-41 • If no label is displayed on extension lead, take the tool back to the store

ASK for the details of vibration safe working limits to AVOID injuries such as Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome