Level Two - Engineering - Mains Powered Tools

SAFE USE OF MAINS POWERED TOOLS AND EXTENSION CORDS 

What is a mains powered power tool?

Mains-powered devices are tools that have cords attached to them that plug into something instead of being cordless and powered by battery packs. An advantage for mains powered is that they can start immediately, unlike if you were to use an air tool, etc. 

Where are you likely to use it? 

Mains-powered tools are now most likely used in industries, but you will only see a few around due to battery-powered tools that are introduced to the industry and are more accessible for tasks and are less hassle. 

Give 3 examples of a mains power tool you may have already used. 

Drill

Grinder

Power saw 

Describe/explain the task you use it for.

A drill is used to cut a hole into the material. It drills holes into materials as well as screwing in screws. 

A grinder is used for either cutting, grinding, finishing, and polishing metal materials. 

A power saw is used for cutting through large sheets of material. 

General safety around electricity include:

• Keep liquids away from any live wire 
• Avoid overloading any outlets 
• Ensure the electric cords are not nicked or sliced in any part to which bare wires are exposed
• Disconnect cords that are not in use
• Use equipment that has a non-conducting handle when working with electrical devices
• Never wear jewelry or anything metal that could risk any harm
• When handling anything electric, check that everything is dry especially your hands and your workspace, and wear non-conductive gloves
• Avoid high electric activity where there is condensation or dense moisture
• Take note if there is any sparking coming from any part of an electricity source and unplug any source of electricity flowing through to repair the problem
• Keep any flammable liquids away from the all-electric source

What do I do if something is wrong? ( Fault Reporting )

If something goes wrong in a workshop, it is important to either service, replace and report the damage that took place. 

General hazards and dangers of mains powered power tool

• Keeping the cord out of the way of anyone way
• Never carry a tool by the cord
• Keep all cords away from heating, any liquids, or sharp edges
• Follow the proper instructions for the tool in use 
• Treat all tools as if they're plugged in
• Check there are no splits in the rubber casing for the cord which creates a safety hazard due to bare wires. 
• Check that the outer covers of the tool are not damaged

What is meant by “RCD” Why is it important

An RCD (Residual current device) is a device that is designed to prevent you from any electric shock if you touch a bare live wire. The RCD works by constantly monitoring the electric current flowing through then it will switch off the electricity automatically if it senses a fault. 

What is meant by “Double Insulation” Why is it important

A double insulated RCD ensures greater protection because it consists of an extra layer of insulation over the basic insulation.

Safety checks and safe working practices when using a mains-powered tool

• Ensure that the connections with tools are correctly in place
• Inspect the tool for any damaging 
• After the use of a device, ensure that it is switched off and the is no power going through 
• Make sure that other workers are aware of where the tool is sourced so they don't trip or unplug it
• Be aware of your surroundings that could potentially cause you to harm yourself or knock something over

Hazards and dangers of extension cords

• Tripping hazard - Check that the cord is not looped up or in the way. 
• Visibility - Ensure that the electric cord is visible for others to see and isn't running into anyone way
• Too much power - Make sure that there aren't too many power tools plugged into an outlet that cannot handle the high wattage 
• Plugging in - Make sure the plugs are the prongs of the cord isn't exposed if it is plugged into an outlet

General PPE when using mains-powered tools