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 fibrillation of the heart and death. An electric shock can also cause the user to fall off a ladder or another elevated work surface, which can lead to injury due to the fall.
Protection from electrical shock and burns
To protect the user from shock and burns, electric tools must have a three-wire cord with a ground and be plugged into a grounded receptacle, be double insulated, or be powered by a low voltage isolation transformer. Three-wire cords contain two current carrying conductors and a grounding conductor. Any time an adapter is used to accommodate a two-hole receptacle, the adapter wire must be attached to a known ground. The third prong must never be removed from the plug.
Double-insulated tools are available that provide protection against electrical shock without third-wire grounding. On double insulated tools, an internal layer of protective insulation completely isolates the external housing of the tool.
Electric tools best practices
The following general practices should be followed when using electric tools:
- Operate electric tools within their design limitations
- Use gloves and appropriate safety footwear when using electric tools
- Store electric tools in a dry place when not in use
- Do not use electric tools in damp or wet locations unless they are approved for that purpose
- Keep work areas well lighted when operating electric tools
- Ensure that cords from electric tools do not present a tripping hazard
In the construction industry, employees who use electric tools must be protected by ground-fault circuit interrupters or an assured equipment-grounding conductor program.
Source: U.S. Department of Labor, OSHA 3080 Hand and Power Tools
The information and recommendations contained in this material have been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. However, SECURA accepts no legal responsibility for the accuracy, sufficiency, or completeness of such information. Additional safety and health procedures may be required under particular circumstances. Please talk with your SECURA Risk Management Consultant for more information.
