5 GENERAL POWER TOOL SAFETY WARNINGS
Read all safety warnings and instructions. Failure to heed warnings and follow instructions
may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious injury. Keep safety warnings and instructions
for future reference. The term "power tool" in the safety warnings refers to your mains-
operated (corded) power tool or battery- operated (cordless) power tool.
5.1 Working area
▪ Keep working area clean and well lit. Untidy and dark areas can lead to accidents.
▪ Do not operate power tools in potentially explosive surroundings, for example, in the
presence of inflammable liquids, gases or dust. Power tools create sparks which may
ignite the dust or fumes.
▪ Keep children and bystanders at a distance when operating a power tool. Distractions can
cause you to lose control of it.
5.2 Electrical safety
▪ Always check that the power supply corresponds to the voltage on the rating plate.
▪ Power tool plugs must match the outlet. Never modify the plug in any way. Do not use
adapter plugs with earthed power tools. Unmodified plugs and matching outlets will reduce
the risk of an electric shock.
▪ Avoid body contact with earthed surfaces such as pipes, radiators, kitchen ranges and
refrigerators. There is an increased risk of an electric shock if your body is earthed.
▪ Do not expose power tools to rain or wet conditions. If water gets inside a power tool, it will
increase the risk of an electric shock.
▪ Do not damage the cord. Never use the cord for carrying, pulling or unplugging the power
tool. Keep the cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges or moving parts. Damaged or
entangled cords increase the risk of an electric shock.
▪ When operating a power tool outdoors, use an extension cable suitable for outdoor use.
Using a cord suitable for outdoor use reduces the risk of an electric shock.
▪ If operating a power tool in a damp location is unavoidable, use a power supply protected
by a residual current device (RCD). Using an RCD reduces the risk of an electric shock.
5.3 Personal safety
▪ Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use common sense when operating a power
tool. Do not use a power tool when you are tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol or
medication. A moment of inattention when operating a power tool may result in serious
personal injury.
▪ Use safety equipment. Always wear eye protection. Using safety equipment such as a
dust mask, non-skid safety shoes, a hard hat, or hearing protection whenever it is needed
will reduce the risk of personal injury.
▪ Avoid accidental starts. Ensure the switch is in the off position before inserting the plug.
Carrying power tools with your finger on the switch or plugging in power tools when the
switch is in the on position makes accidents more likely.
▪ Remove any adjusting keys or spanners before turning on the power tool. A spanner or
key left attached to a rotating part of the power tool may result in personal injury.
▪ Do not reach out too far. Keep your feet firmly on the ground at all times. This will enable
you retain control over the power tool in unexpected situations.
▪ Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewellery. Keep your hair, clothing and
gloves away from the power tool. Loose clothes, jewellery or long hair can become
entangled in the moving parts.
