Power tools are widely used in the construction, wood working and logging industries, and contribute to making a workers' jobs much easier. They are popular not only for the speed with which they can perform a task, but also for their precision and accuracy. However, defects in the design and manufacturing of these tools can have a major impact on workers' safety.

Types of Dangerous Power Tools

Table Saw

These are used in wood working factories around the world, and are widely regarded as some of the most dangerous power tools. Operations by trained workers can ensure some amount of safety, but small defects in manufacturing and design can place the most experienced operator at risk for injuries. Serious injury can occur if blades are not correctly tightened, the hood guard malfunctions, or if there are faulty or missing anti-kickback devices or splitters.

Shaper

Shaper accidents are usually linked to the sharpness and speed of the cutter. It is very important to be aware of the radius around the cutter that poses the maximum risk of injuries. A shaper should come with a guard that must be used every time the machine is operated. Machine defects can manifest themselves in the form of clattering noises that signify looseness when the tool is operated. If the tongue washer is improperly installed, or the cutter is positioned improperly, the resulting accidents and injuries can be severe.

Chain Saws

Chain saws are responsible for approximately 30 percent of all woodwork related accidents every year. The absence of safety devices or anti-kickback devices on a chain saw can increase the possibility of these accidents. For instance, a chain brake can stop the chain in the event of a kickback. A hand guard can prevent a worker's hand from accidentally moving into the chain. Other safety devices like anti-kickback chains and throttle interlocks can help prevent serious accidents. A chain saw that does not include these safety devices can cause serious injuries.

Other power tools like cordless drills, hand held blowers, and gasoline back pack blowers come with extremely high decibel levels that can impact hearing.

Working with power tools does not have to be dangerous at all; if the worker is properly trained in the right methods for operating the tools they can be safely operated. Even the most highly trained user, however, may not be able to spot concealed defects in the tool that can cause malfunctioning during operation. Manufacturers often forego testing procedures in order to quickly introduce a product to the market, exposing people to accidents caused by these dangerous power tools.