Safety Threats & Mitigation for Portable Power Tools

The Britannia P&I Club has highlighted the safety risks associated with improper usage of portable power tools on board ships. Neglecting safety guidelines for these tools can lead to injuries, including fatalities, which could have been prevented. The Club identifies several common issues, such as the removal or modification of safety guards, tampering with safety cut-out devices, and poor general maintenance of electrical tools. To mitigate these risks, the Club recommends daily inspections and safety checks, not modifying or removing safety guards, ensuring the functionality of safety cut-out devices, and testing the wiring and overall condition of electrical tools. Additionally, users should wear appropriate protective gear and receive comprehensive training on tool safety. Other measures include securing doors when power supply wires pass through, isolating equipment during temporary interruptions, taking breaks when using high-speed rotating tools, using the correct disc for the material and speed, and securing tool accessories properly.

Overall, the Britannia P&I Club emphasizes the importance of adhering to safety guidelines for portable power tools on board ships. Neglecting these guidelines can result in serious injuries, some of which have been fatal. The Club highlights common issues such as the removal or modification of safety guards and tampering with safety cut-out devices. To mitigate these risks, the Club recommends daily inspections and safety checks, not modifying or removing safety guards, and ensuring the functionality of safety cut-out devices. Users should also wear appropriate protective gear, receive comprehensive training, and conduct pre-work risk assessments. Other measures include securing doors, isolating equipment during interruptions, taking breaks when using high-speed rotating tools, using the correct disc, and securing tool accessories properly.

Reference Source: Google News .