Rank: Forum user 
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Should tradesmen provide their own RCDs when using 240v power tools, Or is the onus on the employer to provide as PPE ???
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Rank: Super forum user 
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Paul - I think the answer may lie in the relationship of the tradesman, but if they are an employee of the employer and the RCD is required as a control measure, then HSAWA section 9 applies in the same way as PPE would and would have to be provided, paid for and mainatained by the employer.
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Rank: Super forum user 
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I tend to agree with Phil, however most construction sites only use 110v and not 240, therefore do not use RCDs for that reason.
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Rank: Super forum user 
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Just my view, but isn't it down to good old fashioned risk assessment? It will surely depend on the nature of the task and environment, i.e. is it a construction site or is the tradesperson working a domestic setting or a workshop?
I wouldn't have though of an RCD device as PPE though anymore than a fuse or double insulated appliances would be.
We have trades people working in social housing who supply and use therir own tools. We have a policy of testing everything and putting an RCD type plug on anything which is 240, although 110 is preferable wherever possible.
Not sure that helps, but thought I'd throw it in.
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Rank: Super forum user 
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Surely battery operated tools should be first preference these days? No trailing cables, no trip hazards,no heavy transformers etc.These tools can be readily recharged via inverter circuits in the works vehicle and are ideal for short/medium duration maintenance and repair.
p.s. RCD use is relevant to 110V systems supplied from 230V mains.
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Rank: Guest
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My simple rule of thumb would be... Who provided the powertool! The RCD is part of the electrical safety of the tool.
So if the tradesman supplies his own tool, then he supplies his own RCD.
If we (The client/employer) provide the tool, then we provide the RCD.
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Rank: Super forum user 
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The question is about "tradesmen" so I think it covers general work and not just in a construction environment.
My view is that anyone bringing their personal tools onto any premises - and if not 110v, then they provide RCD equipment. it is not PPE but is work equipment.
There may be some tools that are not available as 110v therefore 240v is required, but always with RCD in the line and proof of testing.
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Rank: Forum user
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