How to Prevent Electrical Accidents with Hand Tools
Never use any electrical hand tool that does not carry the Underwriters Laboratories Seal of Approval., Older tools with a two-wire design should be immediately upgraded to a three-wire system by qualified personnel., Make sure the three-wire system...
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Never use any electrical hand tool that does not carry the Underwriters Laboratories Seal of Approval.
This seal indicates the tool has undergone extensive testing and has been found to be safe when properly maintained. -
Step 2: Older tools with a two-wire design should be immediately upgraded to a three-wire system by qualified personnel.
If your tool cannot be upgraded, discard it.
Most power tools in use today have a three-wire system.
This third wire serves as an emergency ground in the event of an internal short or ground fault. , Adapters not properly connected to receptacle boxes make the ground fault wire ineffective. , This causes the cord's insulation to rapidly deteriorate.
Inspect tool and extension cords routinely for fraying and other signs of deterioration.
Repair or replace immediately. , GFIs do not replace traditional protection provided by current isolation, insulation and grounding, but they are a backup if insulation or grounding fails due to age, abuse or mechanical breakdown.
The GFI detects low levels of leaking current and cuts off power quickly at leakages greater than 5 mA. , Most electrical tools come with a switch to allow for the device to run without holding down the trigger.
If this switch is on and the device is plugged in, it will turn on immediately.
Pulling the trigger is the usual method of switching these switches off. -
Step 3: Make sure the three-wire system is maintained through all adapters and extension cords.
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Step 4: Never disconnect or carry power tools by their cords.
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Step 5: Consider using a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFI).
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Step 6: Check the switch before plugging in your device.
Detailed Guide
This seal indicates the tool has undergone extensive testing and has been found to be safe when properly maintained.
If your tool cannot be upgraded, discard it.
Most power tools in use today have a three-wire system.
This third wire serves as an emergency ground in the event of an internal short or ground fault. , Adapters not properly connected to receptacle boxes make the ground fault wire ineffective. , This causes the cord's insulation to rapidly deteriorate.
Inspect tool and extension cords routinely for fraying and other signs of deterioration.
Repair or replace immediately. , GFIs do not replace traditional protection provided by current isolation, insulation and grounding, but they are a backup if insulation or grounding fails due to age, abuse or mechanical breakdown.
The GFI detects low levels of leaking current and cuts off power quickly at leakages greater than 5 mA. , Most electrical tools come with a switch to allow for the device to run without holding down the trigger.
If this switch is on and the device is plugged in, it will turn on immediately.
Pulling the trigger is the usual method of switching these switches off.
About the Author
Rachel Thomas
Writer and educator with a focus on practical practical skills knowledge.
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