Power tools are very useful pieces of equipment, but they can also be very dangerous if not used correctly. It’s essential that anybody operating power tools is fully trained, competent and knows exactly what they are doing. If anything is neglected in the health and safety process, people are putting themselves in a very risky situation and serious accidents can happen.
Anyone operating a power tool should receive the right training before doing so. This is the responsibility of both the operator and the person in charge. They should be given any relevant manuals to familiarise themselves with the processes involved, and should be shown in detail what to do. Somebody should be present to supervise at all times and ensure that the people operating tools on any premises are doing so in the safe and correct manner.
The tools themselves should always be set up correctly before use. If anything needs to be wired in, this should be carried out by a qualified electrician. They should also make sure that everything is earthed properly. Equipment should be serviced on a regular basis to check that it’s in good working order, and if anyone notices any defects they should stop using the equipment and report it immediately.
Staff should be provided with any safety equipment required to operate the machinery they’re using. This could include high visibility clothing, safety boots, safety goggles, knee protection, ear protection and anything else needed for specific industries. Everyone should adhere to basic safety rules, such as not wearing loose clothing or jewellery and tying back long hair.