Using power and hand tools to do house jobs is something the majority of Americans have always done and will continue to do. Power tools come handy to do light work at home and are also essential to the ones involved in the skilled trades. But it is important to remind oneself that working with tools isn’t an easy job thus requires the right knowledge and skill in handling them. Injuries during the work are common. The Consumer Product Safety Commission’s (CPSC) National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) estimated that there were almost 12,000 reported cases of injuries to children caused by power tools such as sanders, joiners, drills, etc.
The actual number of injuries will definitely be more compared to the estimation as these are data collected from reported injuries in the participating hospital. The real number can’t be estimated as complete data of each and every household isn’t available. So when purchasing power tools always look out for the safety standards- manufacturing details, Approval marks by CSA, NSC, ANSI, IEC, UL, CPSC or some other safety association. You should also consider going through tool buyer’s guides to become more familiar with safety precautions and standards.
Think before buying a Chinese product as their regulatory standards differ from U.S. standards. Buying local is always a better option. Also look if the power tool is double insulated or not. It will help protect the user from the risk of electrical shock. Check for a warranty or registration card to get notified of any recalls or other safety information in the event of a problem with the purchasing model. When operating always be in the right state, not over tired/ drunk/ drugged or injured.
Tie up the hair, do not wear loose clothes and always keep a safe body distance from the power tool. Wearing safety equipment like glasses, hat is a must. Unplug the power tools before cleaning.