Risk Safety and Precautions When Using Electrical Tools and Equipment

If you buy any device in a store, it always comes with a user manual. Of course, this also applies to power tools in nigeria. Some devices are intuitively easier to operate than others. Nevertheless, it is important to consider how to handle a machine safely before use. For example, if used incorrectly, electrical tools and equipment are not only dangerous for the person who operates the machine, but also for the environment in which the person in question uses the machine.

electrical tools and equipment are distinguished by the way in which the actuation takes place. For example, there are tools that are tied to electricity. Of course this can be wired, but for some time also based on a battery. The major advantages of cordless tools are the freedom of movement and the today powerful properties with which they are equipped.

If electricity in any form is missing or the work situation does not allow the use of power tools in nigeria due to an increased risk of electrocution or explosion, then compressed air drive is another option. It is important to have a compressor that constantly supplies compressed air of around 7 bar. However, a disadvantage of a compressor is that it needs fossil fuel to function.

Work equipment described meets the latest state of the art and ergonomic aspects have also been taken into account in its design. From an ergonomics point of view, products, technical systems, tasks and functions should (1) guarantee the safety, health and well-being of people and (2) promote efficient functioning.

Risks

The biggest risks when using electric hand tools are:

• electrocution from live parts;

• burns or explosion due to sparks;

• injury from moving parts or ejected particles;

• hearing damage from harmful noise;

• vibrations to which the human body is exposed;

• tripping hazard due to loose wires/cords. 

Risks with pneumatic hand tools are:

• injury from flying particles;

• hearing damage from harmful noise;

• vibrations to which the human body is exposed;

• tripping hazard due to loose hoses.

Occupational hygiene strategy

The occupational hygiene strategy prescribed by the Working Conditions Act indicates that risks are to be tackled at the source at all times, taking into account the state of the art. If this is not possible, apply collective measures and only as a last resort personal protective equipment.

Below is the elaboration of the risks that arise with electrical tools and equipment, based on the above strategy.

Risk of electrocution

electrical tools and equipment that operate on 230 Volt (V) alternating current are characterized by the fact that they must be double insulated. This is indicated as a symbol on every hand tool with two interlocking squares (see picture). In addition to the normally installed insulation, i.e. no current-carrying materials and/or parts, additional insulation has been applied so that there is a double protection.

Burns and explosion hazard

Burns from sparks or the risk of igniting an explosive mixture are very critical risks, especially when working in damp or confined spaces and trenches. Here a ''safe voltage'' is of great importance. This is 50 V AC and 120 V DC. Another way to work with a safe voltage is to use an isolation transformer to which only one device is connected. Under no circumstances may this transformer be present in the workspace itself. See NEN 1010 Safety provisions for low voltage installations.

In special cases, such as within the petrochemical industry, 'explosion-proof' power tools in nigeria offer a solution. This tool is not only double insulated, but internal sparking is prevented by using special materials. This tool has a transparent symbol with a hexagon with the letters Ex (above image). Sometimes this symbol is shaded in yellow, but this is not mandatory.

ATEX guidelines (main changes)

The ATEX company directive 1999/92/EC (also known as 'ATEX 153') describes the minimum safety requirements for employers to create a healthy and safe working environment for employees who may be at risk from explosive atmospheres.

Hazardous area must be clearly marked for employees with a warning triangle containing the text "EX" in black on a yellow background.

Since April 20, 2016, only the number of the ATEX has changed (was ATEX 137; became ATEX 153 on the date indicated).

Since 20 April 2016, all new explosion-proof equipment and protective systems must comply with the new directive. This mainly affects the manufacturers of explosion-proof equipment and protection systems. For example, explosion-proof equipment that meets the requirements of ATEX 114 must be marked with the 'Ex' sign in a regular hexagon (see illustration). There is no obligation for a yellow background here.

The consequences of the changed ATEX are:

• more product supervision;

• stricter requirements for importers;

• new accreditation for 'notified bodies'.

It is important for users to know that the current ATEX 95 certificates remain valid. However, as soon as explosion-proof equipment or protection systems are adapted or renewed, ATEX 114 applies.

Moving parts

When using electrical tools and equipment, there are parts of the device that move. Think, for example, of the drill head of a drilling machine in which the drill bit is located. If this part comes into contact with clothing or (long) hair, this can lead to injury.

Flying particles

While performing any operation, all kinds of particles shoot around, each of which determines its 'own path'. It is impossible to determine where these particles end up. To avoid getting hit in the eye, for example, the use of personal protective equipment is recommended. Instructions for use indicate which protective equipment you need to work safely. Parts of the hand tools can also shoot off (with great speed), for example pieces of a flex blade if used incorrectly.

Hearing damage due to harmful noise

Sound is only harmful if the limit of 80 dB(A) is exceeded. It is well known that this can affect people's health and can also lead to permanent hearing damage with long-term exposure. If a source approach or collective measures are not possible, personal protective equipment offers a solution. Think of otoplastics, ear muffs or ear rolls.

Also take the environment into account. Demarcate the area and mark the place if the harmful noise exceeds the limit of 85 dB(A). If necessary, use a decibel meter to determine the sound level.

Vibrations

Vibrations are created during the use of almost any power tools in nigeria. Transmission to the body is through hands and arms with adverse effects on human health with prolonged exposure. This can lead to chronic nerve and joint disorders. Especially hands, arms and back have to suffer. The condition of the hands and arms is popularly referred to as ''white fingers''. Specialist jargon speaks of hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAV).

Action values and limit values are important for vibrations. If the employer exceeds an action value, the employer is obliged to take measures. When passing the limit value, the employer must stop immediately. Man is replaced by a machine. The employer should always make this assessment when assessing risks.

Action value in m/s2 Limit value in m/s2

Hand-arm vibrations 2.50 5.00

whole-body vibrations 0.50 1.15

Trip hazard

When using power tools in nigeria, cords (electric) and hoses (pneumatic) are often necessary. It is easy to trip over this in the workplace. Especially cords and hoses lying on the floor cause risks. Try to lay them in such a way or hang them up so that tripping hazards are prevented as much as possible (not in paths, etc.).

CE marking

Every product, but also hand tools regardless of the mode of operation, bears the CE marking. The manufacturer hereby indicates that the product complies with the applicable (safety) regulations within the European Economic Area (EEA). CE is the abbreviation of Conformité Européenne and means: ''as in accordance with European regulations''. This marking promotes free trade within the EEA and also increases security.

(Re)inspections and maintenance

Hand tools must be provided with an inspection sticker before use. This sticker states the date on which the relevant tool must be re-inspected.

Always have periodic (re)inspections carried out by a trained or authorized person.

The intensity with which and the circumstances under which electric hand tools are used determine the degree of maintenance and (re)inspection. This is laid down in the NEN 3140 Low Voltage Installations, provisions for safe work, inspection and maintenance.

Measures to work safely with hand tools

• Determine what the activities are and take the environment into account;

• Use tools that are suitable for the activity and conditions and take into account the state of the art when choosing;

• Check beforehand whether the supplied voltage corresponds to the voltage indicated on the device;

• Before use, check that the electrical tools and equipment is CE marked and that the power tool is double insulated. Recognizable by two squares placed in each other.

• Read the instructions for use and/or instruct employees before use;

• Try to fight risks at source in the first place;

• Only use the prescribed personal protective equipment;

• Ensure a tidy workplace;

• Before use, check the device for the presence of a (re)inspection sticker and (re)inspection period, 'visible' damage, and for the presence of safety provisions;

• Always replace consumables such as a drill, saw blade or saw, etc. without voltage or pressure with compressed air;

• Unplug or turn off compressor when equipment is not in use;

• Store the tool after use so that the risk of damage is limited;

• Have repairs and/or inspections carried out by qualified persons.

Conclusion

Power tools in nigeria are indispensable in our society today. There is a machine that is wired, wireless or pneumatically driven for every application. When developing this type of work equipment, the state of the art and ergonomics are always taken into account so that a machine can be used safely and responsibly.

A well-organized workplace provides an overview and limits the risk of tripping and falling. Careful disposal of electrical tools and equipment after use and periodic inspections and checks improve safety and extend their lifespan.