Inspecting and Maintaining Power Tools and Cords
The Problem
Power tools and electrical cords are essential on worksites, but they can pose serious hazards if not properly inspected and maintained. Faulty tools or damaged cords can lead to electric shocks, burns, fires, or other serious injuries. Today, we’ll look at how to identify common hazards and ensure our equipment is safe to use.
Identify the Hazards
- Damaged Cords: Cuts, frays, exposed conductors, or missing earth pins can result in electric shock or fire.
- Defective Power Tools: Cracked housings, loose parts, or overheating can cause malfunctions or injuries.
- Improper Repairs: Quick fixes such as taping exposed wires are unsafe and non-compliant.
- Improper Storage: Leaving tools and cords in damp or dusty conditions can lead to corrosion or short circuits.
Safety Practices and Preventative Measures
Inspect Tools and Cords Before Use:
- Check cords for cuts, splits, or damaged insulation.
- Look for bent, broken, or missing earth pins on plugs.
- Inspect power tools for loose components, cracked casings, or unusual noise or heat.
Remove Damaged Equipment from Service:
- Tag out any damaged tools or cords and take them out of use immediately.
- Notify your supervisor of any defects.
- Only qualified persons should carry out electrical repairs.
Store Tools and Cords Properly:
- Store in a clean, dry area to prevent corrosion and moisture damage.
- Use cord reels or hooks to prevent tangles and kinks.
Use Tools and Cords Correctly:
- Ensure cords are rated for the equipment and workload.
- Avoid overloading circuits or daisy-chaining cords.
- Never use cords to carry tools or equipment.
Protect Yourself While Using Tools:
- Wear insulated gloves in damp or high-risk environments.
- Keep cords away from walkways and sharp edges. Use covers where needed to prevent tripping or damage.
Real-Life Case or Scenario
A worker received serious burns after using a power drill with a frayed cord. The cord had been temporarily taped instead of being repaired properly. During use, the exposed wires came into contact with a puddle, resulting in an electric shock. This incident could have been avoided with a proper inspection and repair process.
Employee Responsibilities
- Inspect tools and cords before each use.
- Report and tag out any damaged equipment.
- Store tools and leads properly after use.
- Follow safe work practices and always use tools as intended.
Employer Responsibilities
- Supply compliant and well-maintained tools and cords.
- Promptly repair or replace any damaged equipment.
- Provide training on safe use, inspection, and storage of electrical tools.
- Enforce policies for tagging and reporting unsafe equipment.
Discussion & Questions
- “What tool or cord hazards have you seen on this site?”
- “Do you know the procedure for tagging and reporting damaged tools here?”
Encourage open discussion and feedback on current site practices and possible improvements.
Commitment/Action Plan
Let’s commit to inspecting all power tools and cords before each use. Starting today, if you find anything damaged or unsafe, tag it, report it, and don’t use it. Prevention is key to protecting yourself and your workmates.
Wrap-Up
Taking a few minutes to inspect and maintain your tools can prevent serious injuries—or even save a life. Let’s stay vigilant, follow safe procedures, and make equipment safety a daily habit. Thank you for making health and safety a priority.
Standards Overview
Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA), PCBUs (Persons Conducting a Business or Undertaking) must eliminate or minimise risks related to electrical equipment. In accordance with AS/NZS 3760 and WorkSafe NZ guidance:
- Electrical tools and leads must be inspected, tested, and tagged regularly.
- Damaged or unsafe equipment must be immediately removed from service.
- Workers must be trained in safe tool usage, inspection, and storage practices.
Disclaimer
These toolbox talks are provided for informational and educational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional legal, health and safety, or regulatory advice.
The content reflects recognised best practices and general industry standards as at the date of publication. However, it may not be applicable to all workplace environments or specific operational contexts.
It is the responsibility of the Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU), as well as officers, workers, and other duty holders under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA), to ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and WorkSafe New Zealand guidance.
The authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk disclaim all liability for any loss, damage, or injury arising from the use or reliance on the information provided. Users should seek advice from a suitably qualified health and safety professional or legal advisor for guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.
Always follow your organisation’s policies, procedures, and safe work practices to manage risks and maintain a safe and healthy workplace.
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