Chainsaw Repair

***I am posting this here due to the general interest in battery powered outdoor powered equipment (OPE). Many times, when I see someone pick up a battery chainsaw (etc.) their first impulse is to squeeze/test the trigger - not a problem with most gasoline powered tools, where it is easy to know if the engine is running. But it can be a real surprise with an electric tool, especially one without a cord which may be perceived as 'safe', less powerful, or even as a 'toy'. I explain this to anyone when handing them a battery tool; "The tool is 'live' if the battery is installed". I have also placed warning labels and even 'trigger locks' on some tools left out at GTGs.***

The report, below, appears to address manufacturing or design defects, with similar hazards.

"After failing to report safety defects on its battery-powered mowers, Black & Decker is playing a $1.575 million fine after agreeing to a settlement with the Consumer Product Safety Commission and U.S. Justice Dept. The settlement marks the sixth time since 1986 that Black & Decker has paid fines for failing to report safety defects.

This most recent fine regarding battery-powered mower defects covers 11 years, beginning in 1998 when the company began receiving complaints the blades wouldn’t turn off even after the handles were released and safety key removed—and in some cases the blades would start spontaneously. At least two consumers were injured when blades started up while their mowers were being cleaned. According to reports, Black & Decker identified the defect in 2004, but waited until 2009 to report it to the CPSC. The company agreed to a recall of the machines in 2010.

In addition to the fine, Black & Decker must maintain an internal compliance program to ensure compliance with CPSC safety statutes and regulations and also will develop a system of internal controls and procedures including creating written standards and policies, allowing confidential employee reporting of compliance, and implementing corrective and preventive actions when compliance deficiencies or violations are identified."

***Pull the batteries before working on battery powered tools!***

Philbert

Scary, especially with small kids wanting to emulate dad!

Lithium Battery Fail

Spare lithium battery for an e-cigarette carried loose in pants pocket, along with keys and spare change.  Pretty dramatic!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k1LjSuq0rk8

Philbert

Some of the newer battery powered OPE I have seen require 3 points of positive activation (might be a better term for this?),instead of just the trigger safety that we are used to. Or they have some type of lock-out feature (key or switch), presumably to prevent unintended activation.  Might be a new standard?  Might be an EU thing?

Philbert