Can anybody recommend a good training course or powerpoint presentation on the use of hand held power tools (angle grinders, drills, air buffs etc)? I was recently asked how we deem people competent to use these hand tools and further investigation revealed that no formal training took place. Some of the guys have undergone abrasive wheels training but this doesn't really go into the correct useage of hand tools.

Wouldn't your hazards when using these tools be specific to what you are using them for, ie your grinder could be used to grind or to cut (different wheels) etc. So would you not produce your own safety training based on your risk assessment? I can’t help feeling that we sometimes may go overboard with formal external training. Very soon we will have a training course on how to tie your safety shoe laces, with an advanced course if you have boots (obviously more money for the latter). This would then of course have to be refreshed every 3 years in case they forget. Just my opinion no offence intended, but it may be a consideration to produce your own. Chris