UL Safety Advice

As the weather gets warmer, more construction projects begin. Since this means an increasing use of construction equipment, it is a good time to go over safety tips and precautions. UL offers the following tips for operating power tools and climbing ladders.

Power tools

• Before using any appliance or tool, read and follow the manufacturer's use and care instructions that come with the product.
  
• Always look for the familiar UL Listing Mark before purchasing a power tool. The UL Listing Mark on a product means that representative samples of that product have been tested to nationally recognized safety standards with regard to fire, electric shock and related safety hazards.
  
• Before each use, inspect power tools for frayed power cords and cracked or broken casings. If the product is damaged, stop using it immediately. Don't attempt to repair it yourself. Return the product back to the retailer or manufacturer or have a qualified repair shop examine the product.
  
• When using power tools, always wear proper attire.
  
• Keep clothing, hands and feet away from cutting blades at all times.
  
• Never wear jewelry when working with tools.
  
• Always wear safety glasses.
  
• Pay attention to warning markings.
  
• Don't allow tools to get wet unless they are labeled "immersible."
  
• When using tools or extension cords outside, make sure they are appropriate for outdoor use.
  
• Never alter a product or remove safety features such as blade guards or electric plug grounding pins.
  
• Use only properly rated outdoor extension cords with outdoor electrical tools.
  
• Check the switch on a power tool or garden appliance to make sure it's "OFF" before you plug it in.
  
• Unplug all portable electrically operated power tools when not in use. These tools contain electricity even when turned "OFF" but still plugged in.
  
• Use and store power tools away from water sources to avoid electric shock.
  
• Never use power tools in the rain.
  
• Have a qualified technician install ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) receptacles in all outdoor outlets. After installation, test your GFCIs monthly.
  
• Never carry an appliance by the cord, and never yank the cord when removing it from a receptacle.
  
• When disconnecting the cord, always grasp the plug – not the wire.
  
• Keep the cord away from heat, oil and sharp edges.
  
• Maintain and use your power tools in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

Ladder safety

• Read the instructions included in the manufacturer's use and care. The manufacturer's instructions contain guidelines that can help consumers use ladders more safely and effectively. They also contain important guidelines for weight and height limits.
  
• Choose the proper ladder for the intended task. For example, if the ladder will be used near electrical sources, consumers should use a nonmetallic ladder to reduce the possibility of electrical shock.
  
• Inspect the ladder before stepping on the first rung. Make sure the ladder has been well maintained, that the rungs are clean and all parts are intact – never climb on a slippery or shaky ladder.
  
• Set up the ladder correctly to prevent falls. When planting the base of any ladder, place all feet on a firm, level surface, not on rocks or boards.
  
• Open and lock the spreaders — the devices that hold the front and back sections of a step ladder in an open position —before any weight is placed on the ladder. If using an extension ladder, don't place the ladder at too extreme an angle. Remember that different ladders have different safety considerations.
  
• Use a ladder that is long enough for the job at hand. A great number of ladder accidents are the result of using a ladder that is too short.
  
• Don't carry equipment while climbing a ladder. Invest in a tool belt or have someone hand the equipment to you.
  
• Face the ladder when climbing up and down; keep your body centered between both side rails.
  
• Don't overextend your reach. Make sure you keep your weight evenly distributed.
  
• Never move a ladder while standing on it. Always make sure people and equipment are off the ladder before moving or closing it.
  
• Never stand on a ladder's bucket shelf. Read and follow the warning stickers for highest standing levels.

Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL) is an independent, not-for-profit product safety certification organization that has been testing products for public safety for more than a century. More than 14 billion products bearing the UL Mark enter the marketplace every year. For more information, visit UL's Web site at www.ul.com or call UL's fax-on-demand line at 1-800-473-4766.

Edited by: Jerry R. Borland, P.E.