General safety advice for electrical power tools
2. Electrical safety
To avoid danger to life from electric shock:
a)The mains plug on the device must match the mains socket. The plug must not be modified in any way. Do not use an adapter plug with devices fitted with a protective earth. Unmodified plugs and matching sockets reduce the risk of electric shock.
b)Avoid touching earthed surfaces such as pipes, radiators, ovens and refrig- erators with any part of your body.
There is an increased risk of electric shock if your body is earthed.
c)Keep the device away from rain or moisture. Water entering an electrical device increases the risk of electric shock.
d)Do not use the mains lead for any purpose for which it was
not intended, e.g. to carry the device, to hang up the device or to pull the mains plug out of the mains socket. Keep the mains lead away from heat, oil, sharp edges or moving parts of the device. Damaged or tangled mains leads increase the risk of electric shock.
e)When working outdoors with an elec- trical power tool always use extension cables that are also approved for use outdoors. The use of an extension cable suitable for outdoor use reduces the risk of electric shock.
f)Use a residual current device (RCD) for protection if operating the electrical power tool in a moist environment is unavoidable. The use of an RCD reduces the risk of electric shock.
3.Personal safety
a)Remain alert at all times, watch what you are doing and always proceed with caution. Do not use the device if you are tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol or medication. One
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moment of carelessness when using the device can lead to serious injury.
b)Wear personal protective equipment and always wear
safety glasses. The wearing of personal protective equipment such as dust masks,
c)Avoid unintentional operation of the device. Check that the electrical pow- er tool is switched off before you con- nect it to the mains, pick it up or carry it. Accidents can happen if you carry the de- vice with your finger on the ON / OFF switch or with the device switched on.
d)Remove any setting tools or spanners before you switch the device on. A tool or spanner left attached to a rotating part of a device can lead to injury.
e)Avoid placing your body in an unnat- ural position. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. By doing this you will be in a better position to control the device in unforeseen circumstances.
f)Wear suitable clothing. Do not wear loose clothing or jewellery. Keep your hair, clothing and gloves clear of mov- ing parts. Loose clothing, jewellery or long hair can become trapped in moving parts.
g)If vacuum dust extraction and collection devices are fitted do not forget to check that they are properly connected and correctly used. The use of these devices re- duces the hazard presented by dust.
4.Careful handling and use of electrical power tools
a)Do not overload the device. Always use an electrical power tool that is intended for the task you are under- taking. By using the right electrical power tool for the job you will work more safely and achieve a better result.