Do’s and Dont’s
Do not use a battery that is overly cold or hot.
A lot of similarities to pneumatic tools
Remove battery before clearing jammed fasteners or doing user serviceable work to the tool
Do not disassemble the tool outside of manufacturers recommendations for service
Do send to an approved service provider for repairs
Do follow any specific maintenance instructions
Reminder to always read and follow tool manufacturers safety instructions in the tools user manual.
Warning do not use counterfeit batteries, perhaps with some guidance on how to identify them
Guidance to users about not using battery-powered tools in the rain, including charging, unless they are rated to do so.
Safety Issues Typically Seen in the Field:
Users should not use the tool as a hammer if the fastener hasn’t penetrated as far as they would like.
Users should be discouraged from storing small fasteners in the same transportation container as a battery, tool, or charger in case they become ingested in the equipment.
To go along with using non-OEM batteries in general, Users should also be discouraged from using battery adapters that can be found online which will allow a tool to be run with a different brand’s battery. Using battery adapters may disrupt battery safety features.
Using wrong type of nails – for example, installing 18GA brad nails into a 16GA straight finish nailer.
Not using a properly sized battery pack or using a pack that has a low state of charge
We sometimes recommend using a battery pack of at least a certain capacity for best performance.
When the state of charge of the pack is low, tool performance can be reduced.
Top Issues – Electric Tools:
Expectation that all metrics will match pneumatic:
Speed
Low Maintenance
Low Weight
Lower Cost
Simplicity
Top Issues – Batteries:
Do not last forever
Temperature range limitations
Expensive to replace
Brand incompatibility
Less resistant to liquids compared to pneumatics
Less resistant to abuse compared to pneumatics or simpler machines (drills, flashlights etc.)
Not easily shipped
Require responsible disposal
Need to match performance with type tool (ampacity). Not all manufacturers batteries are compatible with every tool
Can’t run a pocket size drill battery on a battery powered miter saw.
Some User Behavior to Warn Against:
We routinely see work contact elements tied/wedged up in the activated position to create a tool that will fire only by using the trigger, defeating the 2-inputs requirement.
Tools are used as hammers for standing nails on rare occasions and used to move lumber into position frequently.
Tools are often dragged and lifted around the work site by the hose, putting a lot of stress on the hose and air coupling. A broken coupling will cause the hose to whip around uncontrollably. I once spoke to a user who had a broken tooth caused by a whipping hose.
We see users make fastener connections on the opposite side of the structure from where they are standing, with the tool pointed back at themselves. It is not easy to control the tool in these awkward postures and we’ve seen injuries caused by tools slipping off the work surface and ejecting a fastener back at the user.
We still encounter a surprisingly high number of users not wearing safety glasses.
Guidance to users about not using battery-powered tools in the rain, including charging, unless they are rated to do so
Interaction Between the Tool and Battery:
Only use batteries that are approved for use by the manufacturer.
Do not use second source batteries.
Disconnect battery from tool when not in use.
Do not use a battery that is overly cold or hot.
Battery Interactions:
Batteries and Tools are designed specifically to support the requirements of the tool. Everything from cell chemistry, voltage, ampacity, pack construction and tool / battery interface are all unique to specific brands and tool models. Environmental conditions are also an important consideration as any electric tool / battery system has its limitations when exposed to extreme temperatures, moisture, debris and even extended exposure to sunlight.
All tools are designed for specific battery packs. Consult your manual and manufacturer websites to determine if the particular pack model number is the appropriate pack that will lead to a good customer experience and years of reliable service.
Warning to not use counterfeit batteries, perhaps with some guidance on how to identify them.
