Hand and power tools

A suitable, stable workbench must be used to minimise the need to hold materials by hand or rely on makeshift benches.

Power tools and equipment must be adjusted to suit the material being worked on, cutting depths etc, with all guards fully operational.

Knives must have automatic retractable blades and should only be used as a last resort when safer equipment is unsuitable for the task. If using automatic-retractable blade knives poses additional risks, a risk assessment must justify their non-use.

Operators of nail guns and shot-fired fixings must be manufacturer-trained and competent. Nail guns must have safety catches to prevent unintentional firing and be stored in lockable containers with controlled access. All used and misfired cartridges must be collected and disposed of properly.

Toolchests/vaults must be fitted with damper arms to prevent sudden uncontrolled closure.

Dust creation must be managed in accordance with our Construction dust requirement - see Dust power tools and Dust - disc cutters on this web page.

Electric tools must be double insulated, be PAT tested every 3 months and display a valid PAT label.

All guards must be in place and functioning correctly.

The HAVS magnitude, noise emission levels and weight of each tool are to be displayed or at least readily available.

Battery powered or 110v electric tools are preferred to fuel powered equipment.

Fit whip checks across all compressed air hose connection points.

A suitable spill control or containment method must be placed under fuel-driven equipment both during use and refuelling.