Tips on tools

Choose personal protective equipment and tools which have a third-party certificate mark, e.g. the BSI Kitemark, for added safety. The shop staff should be able to advise you on this.

CHAINSAWS

You will be better protected using models which have a chain brake. This stops the saw instantly if the blade kicks back and significantly decreases the chance of serious injury.

Other safety features to look for are:

• a lock-off switch to prevent it being started accidentally
• a chain catcher (to stop a broken chain whipping into your face)
• a tip guard low profile blades - the smaller teeth reduce the chance of a kickback.

Also look for handles spaced at least 9 inches apart to give good control. Use a visor or goggles, ear defenders, helmet, ballistic trousers/leggings,ankle protectors/gaiters, ballistic gloves, boots with steel toecaps.

An RCD for machines fed directly from the mains i.e. not through a transformer.

OTHER SAWS

Use goggles, gloves, dust mask and ear defenders. An RCD for machines fed directly from the mains i.e. not through a transformer.

HEDGETRIMMERS

The safer models have two-handed controls, a blade-stopping time of less than 0.5 seconds and blade extensions (these reduce the risk of fingers getting trapped between the blades). Use goggles, strong gloves, ear defenders, an RCD for machines fed directly from the mains i.e. not through a transformer.

WALLPAPER STRIPPER

Make sure the cable is in good condition and that neither the hose nor the tank are leaking. The wheels/castors should be securely fitted and run smoothly. Use heavy duty gloves. An RCD for machines fed directly from the mains i.e. not through a transformer.

FLOOR SANDER

Use gloves, ear defenders, goggles, dust mask. An RCD for machines fed directly from the mains i.e. not through a transformer.

DEMOLITION DRILLS AND BREAKING EQUIPMENT

Use goggles, gloves, dust mask and ear defenders in all cases. An RCD for machines fed directly from the mains i.e. not through a transformer.

OTHER DRILLING EQUIPMENT

Half inch percussion drills, electric or cordless drills, electric engineers drills, and electro-pneumatic drills - always use an RCD with mains equipment and protect your eyes with safety goggles. If dust is likely to be a problem, e.g. when drilling brick, wear a dust mask as well.

WELDING EQUIPMENT

Gloves and dust masks should always be used. Helmets should be used except with portapack gas welding kit. Welding goggles or welding face shield should be used except with a spot welder or a MIG welding unit. Ear defenders should be used with a petrol welding unit. An RCD for machines fed directly from the mains i.e. not through a transformer.

SCAFFOLDING

Erect only on firm ground, using the adjustable feet to make sure that the scaffold is vertical. Tie in to building if more than 3.25m high for a 1.3m x 1.3m base. Always use a helmet and gloves.

LADDERS

Get help when putting up a large ladder. Don’t lean the ladder on a guttering or other narrow or plastic features. (Hire a stand-off and fit to ladder before putting up ladder). Position with the base 1m out from every 4m of height. Wear stout shoes with a good grip.

BRUSH CUTTERS

You will be better protected by choosing a brush-cutter with heavy duty nylon line, rather than a metal blade. You will also be better protected using models with a throttle lock-off switch, wide guarding to protect the user/bystanders from flying debris, a clutch,, and good balance (as provided by a lower handle, for example). Use gloves and safety goggles or visor with all models, ear defenders with petrol-driven models and an RCD for machines fed directly from the mains i.e. not through a transformer.

COMPOSITE SHREDDER

Use goggles, gloves, dust mask and ear defenders.

THE PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT YOU NEED WILL DEPEND ON WHAT YOU HIRE.

THE TOOL HIRE SHOP WILL ADVISE YOU.

What to ask the hire shop

• What tools and equipment do I need to do the job?
• Can you show me how the equipment works?
• Has the equipment been serviced and tested since it was last hired? (Check whether there is a completed service and test label on the equipment).
• Can I have a copy of the operating and safety instructions?
• What precautions should I take to avoid injury?
• What personal protective equipment should I use?
• Is an RCD* supplied with mains equipment and if so has it been checked recently?

(*RCD stands for Residual Current Device. It can help protect you against electric shocks caused by faults on the cable or equipment. It must be plugged straight into the mains socket so that it also protects any extension cables).

REMEMBER to check the equipment for signs of damage, including electric cables and plugs. If it is not in good condition DON’T ACCEPT IT.

What to remember at home

• Always plan ahead and don’t hurry the work.
• Read ALL the instructions thoroughly before use.
• Follow the instructions and do not take short cuts.
• Switch off and unplug electrical tools at all times when not in use - even for a short time.
• Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Check that safety devices such as guards are securely fitted and do not remove them.
• Don’t let anyone else use the equipment unless they have been taught how to operate it properly and have read the instructions.
• Always use an RCD with mains electrical equipment.
• Use ALL the appropriate personal protective equipment. Don’t wear loose clothing or jewellery that may get caught up. Tie back long hair.

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