HOW TO ENSURE SAFE USE OF POWER TOOLS
Safety and comfort are paramount when using power tools. Here we provide some advice on how to achieve this. This includes the correct management of dust, vibration and noise as well as ensuring tools are used in a way that prevents injury and fatigue.
What are the dangers of construction dust
Frequent or prolonged exposure to dust – particularly the very fine particles of Respirable Crystalline Silica (RCS) – can cause serious lung conditions such as silicosis and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). It has also been linked to cancer. RCS is generated when drilling and cutting stone, brick and concrete and the particles can be 100 times smaller than the average grain of sand, meaning it penetrates deep into the lungs and causes permanent damage. Find out more about the risks of dust here.
How to manage dust effectively
As there is no safe level of exposure, it is important to always use a quality dust extractor when carrying out any dust generating task. An M-class extractor is the minimum legal requirement for RCS.
Dust extractors with automatic operation are a simple way to streamline dust management and ensure that extraction is always used, even for those ‘quick’ jobs. This functionality is common on extractors with power take-off for corded tools and technologies such as our Auto-Start Wireless System (AWS) allows the same with cordless tools. AWS connects compatible tools and extractors together using Bluetooth to run the extractor automatically. Additionally, there are cordless M-Class dust extractors, such as our 40Vmax XGT VC006GM extractor, which improves flexibility when using cordless tools. It eliminates the need to locate a power source and further improves safety as it removes the potential trip hazard of a power cable.
What are the issues with tool vibration
It is important to understand that all power tools produce some level of vibration, and that when used frequently or for prolonged periods of time this can cause health issues. This includes Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS), which commonly results in painful, tingling or numb fingers and hands because of damage to the nerves and blood vessels, as well as weakened muscles and reduced dexterity. Learn more about the effects of tool vibration here.
How can users protect themselves from vibration
Each tool has a vibration exposure value and when multiplied by the usage time, this provides the daily exposure in points. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) sets the following limits:
- Exposure Action Value (EAV) - 100 points per day. This is the point at which steps must be taken to reduce or manage exposure to vibration.
- Exposure Limit Value (ELV) - 400 points per day. This is when work must stop.
Depending on the task, these daily thresholds can be reached relatively quickly. For example, when using the chisel mode of a rotary hammer drill, the EAV may be reached in just 15 mins of trigger time and the ELV in just 60 minutes.
To extend the time before this point is reached, it is worth looking for tools that include features to minimise vibration levels. For example, many Makita tools feature our Anti Vibration Technology (AVT), a range of measures, such as counter-weights, damper springs and vibration absorbing housings, which when combined significantly reduce the vibration transferred to the user’s hands.
What can be done about site noise
High noise levels on site or when completing certain tasks are often ignored as simply a part of the job. However, it can quickly begin to cause hearing damage, resulting in tinnitus or permanent hearing loss. Appropriate hearing protection should always be used when carrying out noise generating tasks. Professionals should also consider investing in tools that produce lower sound levels. For example, cordless machines are generally much quieter than their petrol-powered equivalents, contributing to a quieter environment. Find out more about the impact of noise here.
How to reduce fatigue when using power tools
The nature of some power tools means that they are heavy or bulky and if they are used for extended periods without the correct support users may experience fatigue or even injury. However, leading manufacturers will include design features to make them easier to use. For example, our tool accessories range includes a number of shoulder straps and harnesses to allow more comfortable use of tools such as blowers, line trimmers, brush cutters and pole saws. There is also a harness option for those using our 40Vmax XGT Sanders, where the battery is tethered to the tool. The harness allows the battery to be carried in a pouch on the back for more flexible and comfortable use.
Similarly, there are machines such as our UB004C blower, which is designed around a backpack battery configuration to make it easier and more comfortable to use. The harness of the UB004C distributes the weight of the battery and machine across the user’s shoulders, back and waist meaning it can be used for longer without fatigue.
Safety and wellbeing are essential considerations for those who use power tools, and managing risks like dust, noise and vibration effectively helps to protect you and those working around you.
At Makita we offer Be Safe courses for both construction and grounds maintenance machinery. These offer best practice guidance for correct and safe use of the tools, where both courses can be delivered on site or at one of our UK Factory Service Centres.
Customers can book a Be Safe course via our website by visiting https://www.makitauk.com/booking
