Power tool safety

Most power tool injuries come from skipping a small step: a guard, a check, an unplugged cord.

Key points

• Inspect cords, plugs and guards before use. Tag out anything damaged.
• Unplug or remove the battery before changing blades or bits.
• Keep guards in place. Never pin a guard back.
• Wear eye protection, and hearing protection for loud tools.
• Secure the work piece so both hands can control the tool.

Ask the crew

• Which tool on this job has a guard that keeps getting pinned back?
• Where do damaged tools go so nobody grabs them?