“Take charge of your battery” is the catchphrase of a new safety awareness campaign from the Power Tool Institute.
The campaign — aimed at consumers, contractors, and educators — “promotes the safe use of
lithium-ion batteries in power tools,” says a news release from the institute, which is headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio.
One way to reduce the risk is to choose batteries from the original tool manufacture, “which are designed to share the same circuitry and best operate with matching power tools,” the release noted.
That means avoiding aftermarket or counterfeit batteries, “which may not undergo the same safety testing.”
The campaign also explains the proper ways to store and transport batteries, how to tell if they’re still operating properly, and the correct disposal methods.
“Lithium-ion batteries are quickly becoming more common in power tools and are revolutionary for their increased efficiency, energy storage capacity, and durability,” the release quoted the institute’s Susan Orenga. “But what many don’t realize is that these batteries also come with some serious risks when used improperly. We hope to reach as many consumers, contractors, and educators as possible with this campaign to significantly reduce the risks associated with improper use of lithium-ion batteries.”
The institute’s other advice includes the following:
• inspect batteries regularly for signs of damage;
• don’t use a damaged battery; and
• take used batteries to the appropriate recycling center.
The institute’s members include Stanley Black and Decker, Bosch, Chervon, Festool, Hilti, Hitachi, Makita, Metabo, and TTI.
For more information, visit www.takechargeofyourbattery.com or www.powertoolinstitute.com.