Selection of power tools
When selecting power tools for use within Leuchie House, then safety should always be considered. We will look at the suitability of equipment, training and maintenance requirements. Power tools are not to be sourced from suppliers outside the EU. Where this unavoidable, specialist advice must be sought to advise on compliance with EU legislation and UK requirements.
Testing and maintenance
All portable electrical appliances will be tested in line with portable appliances policy. Any newly purchased items will be added to the equipment register. All staff to carry out a pre-use inspection to ensure the equipment is free from obvious defects. All defects are to be reported to the Facilities department either directly to the Facilities Supervisor or in the repairs and maintenance book. The item is to be taken out of use until effective repairs have been made.
Power tools are to be subject to regular user maintenance in line with the manufacturer’s guidance.
Electrical testing for power tools will be at an interval of 12-18 months unless a specific risk assessment requires the interval to be more frequent. Portable Appliance Testing will be carried out by the Facilities team.
All power tools will be given a visual inspection every 3 months to ensure the equipment is free from defects.
Use
Use of power tools is restricted to those who are competent to operate the appliances and have received appropriate training where necessary.
All equipment deemed to be of risk and in need of additional control measures these will be documented and implemented.
Staff members are not permitted to use their own power tools for work purposes unless they are subject to statutory tests and effective maintenance requirements. Suitable storage arrangements will be made available for all power tools.
Special care is to be taken when introducing power tools to high-risk areas or activities, such as work in confined spaces. These issues must be considered during the risk assessment of the given activity and recorded.