Safe Use In Rain

Any work with power tools requires good judgement and careful preparation. Some manufactures have designed specific power tools for use in some wet conditions including rain and high humidity. To avoid misuse and reduce risk of injury, read and understand manufacturer warnings and guidance before beginning any work in wet conditions.

Two men wearing safety gear during rain on rooftop.

Important Guidelines

Safe Use In Rain symbol

Ensure the tool, battery, and charger are recommended by the manufacturer to be used together in rain. Just because one component of the system, such as the battery, is marked as suitable for use in rainy conditions does not mean all components that can be connected together are a suitable combination for rainy conditions. Reading and understanding the manufacturer’s recommendations, warnings, and instructions is essential to avoid risks such as injury, fire, or electrical shock.

Considerations Before Using Tools and Batteries in the Rain

  • Operating Instructions: Always read the operator’s manual and on-product markings provided with the product and following included warnings and instructions for proper use.
  • Weather Conditions to Avoid: To maintain grip and control and reduce risk of injury, do not operate tools in severe weather conditions, such as dense fog, lightning, high winds, driving rain, or emergency conditions.
  • Safety Equipment: Always wear appropriate PPE and work apparel suitable for the conditions.
  • Visibility and Stability: Ensure good visibility of work piece and surrounding area. Also ensure proper footing and stability can be maintained throughout the entire process.
  • Handling: Keep tool handles and controls dry to maintain proper grip and control.
  • Battery Care: Avoid exposing battery interfaces to rain and do not remove the battery pack in wet conditions. If the battery gets wet, allow it to dry completely before recharging or using it with products not suitable for use in rain.
  • Other Moisture: Only rain (fresh water) exposure is acceptable. Never immerse the battery in any liquid or allow salt water or other corrosive or conductive fluids to contact it, as this could cause short circuits, fires, or explosions.
  • Cleaning: Do not use high-pressure water jets to clean the tool system, as this could force water into components and cause damage.

Following the manufacturer’s warning and instruction and these important guidelines and best practices can help ensure the safe exposure or use of lithium-ion battery tools in rain.

Disclaimer: This document is provided by Power Tool Institute (“PTI”) for informational purposes only. Any inaccuracy or omission is not the responsibility of PTI. PTI does not make any representations or warranties with respect to this document or its contents. PTI hereby disclaims all warranties of any nature, express, implied or otherwise, or arising from trade or custom, including, without limitation, any implied warranties of merchantability, noninfringement, quality, title, fitness for a particular purpose, completeness or accuracy. To the fullest extent permitted by applicable laws, PTI shall not be liable for any losses, expenses or damages of any nature, including, without limitation, special, incidental, punitive, direct, indirect or consequential damages or lost income or profits, resulting from or arising out of a company’s or individual’s use of this document, whether arising in tort, contract, statute, or otherwise, even if advised of the possibility of such damages.

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