Toolbox talk · Electrical · about 5 minutes
Portable power tools: pre-use checks
Download the PDF with attendance sheet
Why it matters
Damaged tools and leads cause shocks, burns and fires. A quick check before use finds most faults.
The hazards
- Damaged casings, cables and plugs
- Missing guards
- Wrong tool or wrong accessory for the job
- Tools past their inspection date
Stay safe
- Check the tool, lead and plug before every use
- Look for cuts, crushed cables, exposed wires, loose plugs and burn marks
- Check the guard is fitted and working
- Check the inspection or test label is in date where the site uses them
- Use 110V tools on site
- Disconnect before changing blades or bits
- Take faulty tools out of use, label them and report them
Ask the team
- What do you look for on a lead before use?
- What do you do with a faulty tool?
- Why disconnect before changing accessories?
The law and guidance
Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998; Electricity at Work Regulations 1989.
General guidance to help you give a toolbox talk. It doesn't replace your site's risk assessments, method statements, permits or training. Check it against your own site rules before you give it.