Tool Safety Guidelines

1. Read the manufacturer's instructions

Every tool comes with an instruction manual. Read it fully before first use – even if you have used a similar tool before. Different models have different risks, safety features, and maintenance requirements. Keep the manual somewhere safe.

2. Use personal protective equipment (PPE)

Below is the minimum recommended PPE for common tool types. Always check the manufacturer's instructions for specific requirements.

Tool type	Required PPE
Any tool that cuts, drills, grinds, or impacts (e.g. saws, drills, angle grinders, impact drivers)	Safety glasses or goggles (impact-rated)
Loud tools (e.g. circular saws, planers, hammer drills, routers)	Ear defenders or ear plugs (SNR 25dB or higher)
Tools with prolonged vibration (e.g. hammer drills, sanders, breakers)	Anti-vibration gloves
Tools that create dust (e.g. saws, sanders, grinders, demolition hammers)	Dust mask (minimum FFP2) – use FFP3 for silica or hazardous dust
Tools with sharp edges, pinch points, or hot surfaces	Cut-resistant gloves and/or heat-resistant gloves
Tools that can eject debris, splinters, or fragments (e.g. nail guns, grinders)	Full-face shield over safety glasses

Also wear:

• Sturdy closed-toe footwear (no sandals)
• Close-fitting clothing (no loose sleeves or jewellery that could get caught)
• Tie back long hair

3. Inspect the tool before each use

Before you switch on any tool, check:

For all tools:

• Cracks or damage to the casing, handle, or guards
• Loose or missing screws
• Dirt or debris that could block vents or moving parts

For corded tools:

• Damaged or frayed power cord
• Bent or broken plug pins
• Exposed wires

For cordless tools:

• Battery pack for swelling, cracks, or leaking fluid
• Charger damage (do not use if damaged)

For accessories (bits, blades, discs, etc.):

• Blunt or chipped cutting edges
• Cracks or missing teeth
• Warping or out-of-round (for discs)
• Correct size and rating for the tool (never use accessories that exceed the tool's maximum speed)

DO NOT use a tool that appears damaged. If it arrived damaged, contact us immediately at bespokehomebuilderltd@gmail.com for a return or replacement.

4. Work area safety

• Keep your work area clean, dry, and well-lit. Clutter and poor lighting cause accidents.
• Do not use tools in wet or damp conditions – risk of electric shock.
• If you must use a corded tool outdoors, connect it via a Residual Current Device (RCD) / circuit breaker (available at any DIY store).
• Keep children and pets away while using tools.
• Do not leave tools unattended while switched on or plugged in.
• Ensure adequate ventilation when using tools that create dust, fumes, or smoke.

5. Using the tool safely

• Always disconnect power (unplug corded tools or remove the battery) before: changing bits/blades/discs, making adjustments, cleaning or unjamming, leaving the tool unattended.
• Never carry a tool with your finger on the trigger or power switch.
• Do not force a tool – use the right tool for the job. Forcing a tool causes kickback and loss of control.
• Maintain a firm grip and proper footing. Do not overreach.
• Keep guards in place and working properly. Never disable or remove a safety guard.
• If a tool becomes jammed or stuck, switch it off and disconnect power before trying to clear the jam.
• Do not use a tool if you are tired, unwell, under medication, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

6. Battery and charging safety (for cordless tools)

• Only use the charger supplied with the tool (or a manufacturer-approved replacement).
• Do not charge a battery that appears swollen, cracked, leaking, or otherwise damaged.
• Charge batteries in a dry location, away from flammable materials.
• Do not leave charging batteries unattended for long periods (e.g. overnight or while you are out of the house).
• Store batteries at room temperature, away from metal objects (coins, keys, paperclips) that could short-circuit the terminals.
• Do not immerse batteries in water or dispose of them in fire – they can explode.
• Recycle used batteries properly at a battery recycling point (most supermarkets and DIY stores have them).

7. Electrical safety (for corded tools)

• Check the power cord regularly for damage. Do not use if damaged.
• Never pull the plug by the cord – pull the plug body.
• Unplug tools when not in use, before cleaning, and before changing accessories.
• Use an RCD (residual current device) for any tool used outdoors or in a garage/workshop with a concrete floor.
• Do not use extension leads that are coiled up – they can overheat. Unroll them fully.

8. What to do in an accident

If someone is injured by a tool purchased from Bespoke Home Builder:

1. Seek medical help immediately – call 999 for serious injuries.
2. Stop using the tool and disconnect it from power.
3. Keep the tool, any damaged parts, and the packaging. Do not throw anything away.
4. Report the incident to us at bespokehomebuilderltd@gmail.com so we can investigate and, if necessary, report to the manufacturer or trading standards.

Your report helps us and the manufacturer identify safety issues and prevent future injuries.

9. Your responsibility as a user

Tool safety is ultimately your responsibility. We provide these guidelines and manufacturer instructions to help you, but we cannot:

• Know your skill level or experience
• Monitor how you use the tool
• Prevent you from taking risks

If you are unsure how to use a tool safely:

• Watch manufacturer video guides (usually available on YouTube or the brand's website)
• Take a course (local colleges and some DIY stores offer tool safety courses)
• Ask a competent, experienced person to show you

Do not guess. A few minutes of learning can prevent a lifetime of injury.

10. Liability disclaimer

These safety guidelines are provided in good faith to help you use tools safely. However, Bespoke Home Builder is not liable for:

• Injuries caused by misuse, unauthorised modification, or failure to follow these guidelines or the manufacturer's instructions
• Injuries caused by normal wear and tear or using a tool beyond its intended purpose
• Consequential damages (e.g. lost wages, damage to other property) except where prohibited by UK law

Nothing in this disclaimer excludes our liability for death or personal injury caused by our negligence, or for defective products under the Consumer Rights Act 2015.

11. Report safety concerns to us

If you believe a tool you purchased from us has a safety defect (e.g. a fault that could cause injury), please tell us immediately at bespokehomebuilderltd@gmail.com.

We will:

• Acknowledge your report within 2 working days
• Investigate with the manufacturer
• Take appropriate action, which may include a product recall or safety notice
• Report serious defects to the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) if required by law

12. For emergencies, always call 999