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NIOSH Power Tools Database

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The NIOSH Power Tools Database contains sound power levels, sound pressure levels, and vibrations data for a variety of common power tools that have been tested by researchers. Data are collected for both the unloaded and loaded use of power tools. The database was created by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).

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59-463: This database was created in order to provide information to the general public about the sound and vibrations generated by power tools during their use. Many of these tools produce sound levels high enough to damage hearing if precautions are not taken. Since this information was not readily available in most cases, NIOSH created the Power Tools Database and ran tests on power tools to provide

118-442: A microwave oven for 2–3 minutes before grilling shortens the time on the hot pan, and removes heterocyclic amine (HCA) precursors, which can help minimize the formation of these carcinogens. Frying, grilling or broiling food at high temperatures, especially starchy foods, until a toasted crust is formed generates acrylamides . This discovery in 2002 led to international health concerns. Subsequent research has however found that it

177-485: A cell's normal processes for regulating growth, leading to uncontrolled cellular proliferation. This occurs when the cell's DNA repair processes fail to identify DNA damage allowing the defect to be passed down to daughter cells . The damage accumulates over time. This is typically a multi-step process during which the regulatory mechanisms within the cell are gradually dismantled allowing for unchecked cellular division . The specific mechanisms for carcinogenic activity

236-466: A few. CERCLA identifies all radionuclides as carcinogens, although the nature of the emitted radiation ( alpha , beta , gamma , or neutron and the radioactive strength), its consequent capacity to cause ionization in tissues, and the magnitude of radiation exposure, determine the potential hazard. Carcinogenicity of radiation depends on the type of radiation, type of exposure, and penetration. For example, alpha radiation has low penetration and

295-482: A high incidence of colon cancer. Dietary increases in total fat or saturated fat result in elevated DCA and LCA in feces and elevated exposure of the colon epithelium to these bile acids. When the bile acid DCA was added to the standard diet of wild-type mice invasive colon cancer was induced in 56% of the mice after 8 to 10 months. Overall, the available evidence indicates that DCA and LCA are centrally important DNA-damaging carcinogens in colon cancer. Stomach cancer

354-673: A long period of time can put a person at risk for hearing loss . The US National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has recommended that a person should not be exposed to noise at or above 85 dB , for the sake of hearing loss prevention. Most power tools, including drills , circular saws , belt sanders , and chainsaws , operate at sound levels above the 85 dB limit, some even reaching over 100 dB. NIOSH strongly recommends wearing hearing protection while using these kinds of power tools. Early Industrial Revolution -era factories had batteries of power tools driven by belts from overhead shafts. The prime power source

413-488: A major source of carcinogens with an estimated 666,000 annual fatalities worldwide attributable to work related cancers. According to NIOSH , 3-6% of cancers worldwide are due to occupational exposures. Well established occupational carcinogens include vinyl chloride and hemangiosarcoma of the liver, benzene and leukemia , aniline dyes and bladder cancer , asbestos and mesothelioma , polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and scrotal cancer among chimney sweeps to name

472-465: A regular hand saw, but the cuts are smoother, straighter, and more square than what is normally achievable with a hand-held power saw. Some stationary power tools can produce objects that cannot be made in any other way. Lathes , for example, produce truly round objects. Stationary power tools for metalworking are usually called machine tools . The term machine tool is not usually applied to stationary power tools for woodworking , although such usage

531-614: A wider assessment of the occupational hazards of chemicals. The European Union classification of carcinogens is contained in the Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008. It consists of three categories: The former European Union classification of carcinogens was contained in the Dangerous Substances Directive and the Dangerous Preparations Directive . It also consisted of three categories: This assessment scheme

590-605: Is carcinogenic, if received in sufficient doses. For most people, ultraviolet radiations from sunlight is the most common cause of skin cancer. In Australia, where people with pale skin are often exposed to strong sunlight, melanoma is the most common cancer diagnosed in people aged 15–44 years. Substances or foods irradiated with electrons or electromagnetic radiation (such as microwave, X-ray or gamma) are not carcinogenic. In contrast, non-electromagnetic neutron radiation produced inside nuclear reactors can produce secondary radiation through nuclear transmutation . Alcohol

649-412: Is a United Nations initiative to attempt to harmonize the different systems of assessing chemical risk which currently exist (as of March 2009) around the world. It classifies carcinogens into two categories, of which the first may be divided again into subcategories if so desired by the competent regulatory authority: The National Toxicology Program of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

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708-661: Is a Group 1 carcinogen . Power tools are used in industry, in construction , in renovation , in the garden, for housework tasks such as cooking , cleaning , and around the house for purposes of driving ( fasteners ), drilling , cutting , shaping, sanding , grinding , routing , polishing , painting, metal working , wood working , heating and more. Power tools are classified as either stationary or portable, where portable means hand-held. Portable power tools have obvious advantages in mobility. Stationary power tools, however, often have advantages in speed and precision. A typical table saw, for instance, not only cuts faster than

767-739: Is a carcinogen of the head and neck, esophagus, liver, colon and rectum, and breast. It has a synergistic effect with tobacco smoke in the development of head and neck cancers. In the United States approximately 6% of cancers and 4% of cancer deaths are attributable to alcohol use. Chemicals used in processed and cured meat such as some brands of bacon, sausages and ham may produce carcinogens. For example, nitrites used as food preservatives in cured meat such as bacon have also been noted as being carcinogenic with demographic links, but not causation, to colon cancer. Cooking food at high temperatures, for example grilling or barbecuing meats, may also lead to

826-761: Is a complex mixture of more than 5,300 identified chemicals. The most important carcinogens in tobacco smoke have been determined by a "Margin of Exposure" approach. Using this approach, the most important tumorigenic compounds in tobacco smoke were, in order of importance, acrolein , formaldehyde , acrylonitrile , 1,3-butadiene, cadmium, acetaldehyde, ethylene oxide, and isoprene. Most of these compounds cause DNA damage by forming DNA adducts or by inducing other alterations in DNA. DNA damages are subject to error-prone DNA repair or can cause replication errors. Such errors in repair or replication can result in mutations in tumor suppressor genes or oncogenes leading to cancer. Breast cancer

885-446: Is a possibility of fuel or vapor ignition - such as automotive workshops. Professional level electric tools differ from DIY or 'consumer' tools by being double insulated and not earthed - in fact, they must not be earthed for safety reasons. Different battery powered power tools often use batteries which are not compatible across brands and models. This may cause vendor lock-in , and results in poor sustainability if and when either

944-472: Is a tool that is actuated by an additional power source and mechanism other than the solely manual labor used with hand tools . The most common types of power tools use electric motors . Internal combustion engines and compressed air are also commonly used. Tools directly driven by animal power are not generally considered power tools. Power tools can produce large amounts of particulates , including ultrafine particles . Airborne particulate matter

1003-430: Is also part of a larger NIOSH prevention initiative called Buy Quiet . In recent years, Buy Quiet programs and initiatives have arisen in an effort to combat occupational noise exposures. These programs promote the purchase of quieter tools and equipment. Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is an increasingly common disorder often caused by work-related activities. Construction, manufacturing, and mining are some of

1062-679: Is an intergovernmental agency established in 1965, which forms part of the World Health Organization of the United Nations . It is based in Lyon , France . Since 1971 it has published a series of Monographs on the Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans that have been highly influential in the classification of possible carcinogens. The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS)

1121-664: Is being phased out in favor of the GHS scheme (see above), to which it is very close in category definitions. Under a previous name, the NOHSC, in 1999 Safe Work Australia published the Approved Criteria for Classifying Hazardous Substances [NOHSC:1008(1999)]. Section 4.76 of this document outlines the criteria for classifying carcinogens as approved by the Australian government. This classification consists of three categories: In this section,

1180-444: Is in progress and the database will be updated to reflect new data acquired. The database is part of NIOSH's Buy Quiet efforts aimed at helping companies buy less noisy equipment that will result in less hearing loss. Other online resources include the "Practical Guide," a noise meter showing the length of time when exposure to various everyday noises becomes hazardous, and employee training videos. Power tool A power tool

1239-738: Is known to cause stomach cancer and MALT lymphoma . Hepatitis B and C are associated with the development of hepatocellular cancer. HPV is the primary cause of cervical cancer . Tobacco smoke contains at least 70 known carcinogens and is implicated in the development of numerous types of cancers including cancers of the lung, larynx, esophagus, stomach, kidney, pancreas, liver, bladder, cervix, colon, rectum and blood. Potent carcinogens found in cigarette smoke include polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH, such as benzo(a)pyrene), benzene , and nitrosamine . Given that populations of workers are more likely to have consistent, often high level exposures to chemicals rarely encountered in normal life, much of

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1298-446: Is mandated to produce a biennial Report on Carcinogens . As of August 2024, the latest edition was the 15th report (2021). It classifies carcinogens into two groups: The American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) is a private organization best known for its publication of threshold limit values (TLVs) for occupational exposure and monographs on workplace chemical hazards. It assesses carcinogenicity as part of

1357-651: Is not a hazard outside the body, but emitters are carcinogenic when inhaled or ingested. For example, Thorotrast , a (incidentally radioactive) suspension previously used as a contrast medium in x-ray diagnostics, is a potent human carcinogen known because of its retention within various organs and persistent emission of alpha particles. Low-level ionizing radiation may induce irreparable DNA damage (leading to replicational and transcriptional errors needed for neoplasia or may trigger viral interactions) leading to pre-mature aging and cancer . Not all types of electromagnetic radiation are carcinogenic. Low-energy waves on

1416-429: Is not likely that the acrylamides in burnt or well-cooked food cause cancer in humans; Cancer Research UK categorizes the idea that burnt food causes cancer as a "myth". Several biologic agents are known carcinogens. Aflatoxin B 1 , a toxin produced by the fungus Aspergillus flavus which is a common contaminant of stored grains and nuts is a known cause of hepatocellular cancer . The bacteria H. Pylori

1475-486: Is occasionally heard, and in some cases, such as drill presses and bench grinders , exactly the same tool is used for both woodworking and metalworking. While hand-held power tools are helpful, they also produce large amounts of noise , vibrations and particulates including ultrafine particles . Airborne particulate matter is a Group 1 carcinogen . Particulates are the most harmful form (other than ultra-fines ) of air pollution as they can penetrate deep into

1534-406: Is one of the leading risk factor for premature death globally. Many construction tasks create dust . High dust levels are caused by one of more the following: Examples of high dust level tasks include: Some industry standards on the size and amount of dust emitted by power tools exist, though it appears that they are not widely known or used globally. Knowing that dust is generated throughout

1593-413: Is the customary power source for nailers and paint sprayers. A few tools (called powder-actuated tools ) are powered by explosive cartridges. Tools that run on gasoline or gasoline-oil mixes are made for outdoor use; typical examples include most chainsaws and string trimmers . Other tools like blowtorches will burn their fuel externally to generate heat. Compressed air is universally used where there

1652-426: Is the fourth most common cancer [990,000 cases (7.8%), 738,000 deaths (9.7%)]. Helicobacter pylori infection is the main causative factor in stomach cancer. Chronic gastritis (inflammation) caused by H. pylori is often long-standing if not treated. Infection of gastric epithelial cells with H. pylori results in increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS cause oxidative DNA damage including

1711-649: Is the most common cancer in the world, both in terms of cases (1.6 million cases; 12.7% of total cancer cases) and deaths (1.4 million deaths; 18.2% of total cancer deaths). Lung cancer is largely caused by tobacco smoke. Risk estimates for lung cancer in the United States indicate that tobacco smoke is responsible for 90% of lung cancers. Other factors are implicated in lung cancer, and these factors can interact synergistically with smoking so that total attributable risk adds up to more than 100%. These factors include occupational exposure to carcinogens (about 9-15%), radon (10%) and outdoor air pollution (1-2%). Tobacco smoke

1770-513: Is the most popular choice to power stationary tools. Other power sources include steam engines , direct burning of fuels and propellants, such as in powder-actuated tools , or even natural power sources such as wind or moving water . In the past, stationary tools were powered by windmills , water wheels, and steam. Some museums and hobbyists still maintain and operate stationary tools powered by these older power sources. Portable electric tools may be either corded or battery-powered. Compressed air

1829-406: Is the second most common cancer [(1.4 million cases, 10.9%), but ranks 5th as cause of death (458,000, 6.1%)]. Increased risk of breast cancer is associated with persistently elevated blood levels of estrogen . Estrogen appears to contribute to breast carcinogenesis by three processes; (1) the metabolism of estrogen to genotoxic, mutagenic carcinogens, (2) the stimulation of tissue growth, and (3)

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1888-834: Is unique to each agent and cell type. Carcinogens can be broadly categorized, however, as activation-dependent and activation-independent which relate to the agent's ability to engage directly with DNA. Activation-dependent agents are relatively inert in their original form, but are bioactivated in the body into metabolites or intermediaries capable of damaging human DNA. These are also known as "indirect-acting" carcinogens. Examples of activation-dependent carcinogens include polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), heterocyclic aromatic amines , and mycotoxins . Activation-independent carcinogens, or "direct-acting" carcinogens, are those that are capable of directly damaging DNA without any modification to their molecular structure. These agents typically include electrophilic groups that react readily with

1947-522: The electromagnetic spectrum including radio waves , microwaves , infrared radiation and visible light are thought not to be, because they have insufficient energy to break chemical bonds. Evidence for carcinogenic effects of non-ionizing radiation is generally inconclusive , though there are some documented cases of radar technicians with prolonged high exposure experiencing significantly higher cancer incidence. Higher-energy radiation, including ultraviolet radiation (present in sunlight ) generally

2006-456: The ability to deliver a higher current. Even when using the same battery technology, voltage rating and amp hour rating, the interface of batteries for power tools are often not compatible across different manufacturers, and sometimes also not even within the same brand or product line. There are examples of aftermarket adapters being made so that the user can mix and match batteries between well-known brands, but these often do not fully implement

2065-401: The battery, charger, or power tool component fails, resulting in potentially all having to be replaced. Examples of battery differences include the battery technologies themselves, with nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) and nickel–cadmium batteries (Ni-Cd) being common previously, but as of 2021 lithium-ion batteries have become the de facto standard for new power tools. The voltage is one of

2124-729: The bile acids deoxycholic acid (DCA) or lithocholic acid (LCA) induce production of DNA-damaging reactive oxygen species or reactive nitrogen species in human or animal colon cells. Furthermore, 14 studies showed that DCA and LCA induce DNA damage in colon cells. Also 27 studies reported that bile acids cause programmed cell death ( apoptosis ). Increased apoptosis can result in selective survival of cells that are resistant to induction of apoptosis. Colon cells with reduced ability to undergo apoptosis in response to DNA damage would tend to accumulate mutations, and such cells may give rise to colon cancer. Epidemiologic studies have found that fecal bile acid concentrations are increased in populations with

2183-621: The brand name from Electrolux , the AEG owner. The incomplete list lists the brand first, then its manufacturer or owner. Carcinogen A carcinogen ( / k ɑːr ˈ s ɪ n ə dʒ ən / ) is any agent that promotes the development of cancer . Carcinogens can include synthetic chemicals , naturally occurring substances, physical agents such as ionizing and non-ionizing radiation , and biologic agents such as viruses and bacteria . Most carcinogens act by creating mutations in DNA that disrupt

2242-720: The carcinogenicity of substances include the National Toxicology Program of the US Public Health Service , NIOSH , the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists and others. There are numerous sources of exposures to carcinogens including ultraviolet radiation from the sun, radon gas emitted in residential basements, environmental contaminants such as chlordecone , cigarette smoke and ingestion of some types of foods such as alcohol and processed meats . Occupational exposures represent

2301-422: The carcinogens implicated as the main causative agents of the four most common cancers worldwide are briefly described. These four cancers are lung, breast, colon, and stomach cancers. Together they account for about 41% of worldwide cancer incidence and 42% of cancer deaths (for more detailed information on the carcinogens implicated in these and other cancers, see references ). Lung cancer (pulmonary carcinoma)

2360-582: The company was auctioned off to A. F. Siebert, a former partner in the Peterson Company, in 1924 and became the Milwaukee Electric Tool Company . In the early 1930s, companies started to experiment with housings of thermoset polymer plastics. In 1956, under the influence of Hans Erich Slany , Robert Bosch GmbH was one of the first companies to introduce a power tool housing made of glass filled nylon. As of 2021, an electric motor

2419-497: The construction process and can cause serious health hazards, manufacturers are now marketing power tools that are equipped with dust collection system (e.g. HEPA vacuum cleaner) or integrated water delivery system which extract the dust after emission. However, the use of such products is still not common in most places. As Q1 2024 petrol powered tools are banned in California. Using power tools without hearing protection over

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2478-645: The cumulative scientific evidence regarding the potential carcinogenicity of specific substances. Foremost among these is the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). IARC routinely publishes monographs in which specific substances are evaluated for their potential carcinogenicity to humans and subsequently categorized into one of four groupings: Group 1: Carcinogenic to humans, Group 2A: Probably carcinogenic to humans, Group 2B: Possibly carcinogenic to humans and Group 3: Not classifiable as to its carcinogenicity to humans. Other organizations that evaluate

2537-402: The database originates from testing done on power tools by NIOSH researchers. Testing is conducted in accordance with ISO 3744 and ANSI S12.15. Calibration of testing equipment is performed before tests begin. Tests are conducted in a semi-anechoic chamber with a test setup that includes a ten-microphone array and an accelerometer. In the case of testing power tools in the unloaded condition,

2596-737: The evidence for the carcinogenicity of specific agents is derived from studies of workers. Selected carcinogens Not in widespread use, but found in: circadian disruption Carcinogens can be classified as genotoxic or nongenotoxic. Genotoxins cause irreversible genetic damage or mutations by binding to DNA . Genotoxins include chemical agents like N-nitroso-N-methylurea (NMU) or non-chemical agents such as ultraviolet light and ionizing radiation . Certain viruses can also act as carcinogens by interacting with DNA. Nongenotoxins do not directly affect DNA but act in other ways to promote growth. These include hormones and some organic compounds. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC)

2655-438: The formation of minute quantities of many potent carcinogens that are comparable to those found in cigarette smoke (i.e., benzo[ a ]pyrene ). Charring of food looks like coking and tobacco pyrolysis , and produces carcinogens. There are several carcinogenic pyrolysis products, such as polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons, which are converted by human enzymes into epoxides , which attach permanently to DNA. Pre-cooking meats in

2714-553: The incidence of DNA damage and breast cancer risk. Consumption of alcohol has also been linked to an increased risk for breast cancer. Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer [1.2 million cases (9.4%), 608,000 deaths (8.0%)]. Tobacco smoke may be responsible for up to 20% of colorectal cancers in the United States. In addition, substantial evidence implicates bile acids as an important factor in colon cancer. Twelve studies (summarized in Bernstein et al. ) indicate that

2773-412: The information. According to NIOSH, the Power Tools Database "is particularly helpful in determining the 'real-world' noise level of power tools as they are used on the job." The database is a part of the much larger Hearing Loss Prevention Research Program conducted by NIOSH. The Hearing Loss Prevention Research Program is designed to reduce occupational hearing loss through research and the application of

2832-532: The lungs and brain from blood streams, causing health problems such as heart disease , lung disease , and premature death . There is no safe level of particulates. A 2013 study concluded that "particulate matter air pollution contributes to lung cancer incidence in Europe". Worldwide, exposure to PM 2.5 contributed to 4.1 million deaths from heart disease, stroke, lung cancer, chronic lung disease, and respiratory infections in 2016. Overall, ambient particulate matter

2891-418: The major base alteration 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG). 8-OHdG resulting from ROS is increased in chronic gastritis. The altered DNA base can cause errors during DNA replication that have mutagenic and carcinogenic potential. Thus H. pylori -induced ROS appear to be the major carcinogens in stomach cancer because they cause oxidative DNA damage leading to carcinogenic mutations. Diet is also thought to be

2950-429: The most important factors for battery compatibility. In simple terms, a higher voltage rating on the tool often means that the power tool can deliver more power, with all else being equal. Using a battery with the wrong voltage rating may damage the tool, persons, or surroundings. As of 2021, 18 volt battery packs are the de facto standard in new power tools. The ampere hour , in simple terms, tells something about how long

3009-605: The most susceptible occupations to NIHL, since many workers in these fields are exposed to high levels of noise on a daily basis. A substantial part of this noise results from the use of power tools, which can produce dangerous levels of noise by themselves. Although the loudness of power tools may be quite apparent to those using them, the actual level of noise produced was mostly unreported and not available easily in an online reference. This database provides detailed information about these noise levels so that appropriate action may be taken to protect workers from them. The information in

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3068-569: The net negative charge of DNA molecules. Examples of activation-independent carcinogens include ultraviolet light , ionizing radiation and alkylating agents . The time from exposure to a carcinogen to the development of cancer is known as the latency period . For most solid tumors in humans the latency period is between 10 and 40 years depending on cancer type. For blood cancers, the latency period may be as short as two. Due to prolonged latency periods identification of carcinogens can be challenging. A number of organizations review and evaluate

3127-412: The power tool can operate before it needs to be recharged. If comparing two batteries with the same battery technology and same voltage rating, a battery with twice the amp hour rating should last about twice as long. In practice there may however be some variations to this. Also, batteries with a higher amp hour rating in practice can also often let the power tool deliver a slightly higher peak power due to

3186-690: The repression of phase II detoxification enzymes that metabolize ROS leading to increased oxidative DNA damage. The major estrogen in humans, estradiol , can be metabolized to quinone derivatives that form adducts with DNA. These derivatives can cause depurination, the removal of bases from the phosphodiester backbone of DNA, followed by inaccurate repair or replication of the apurinic site leading to mutation and eventually cancer. This genotoxic mechanism may interact in synergy with estrogen receptor-mediated, persistent cell proliferation to ultimately cause breast cancer. Genetic background, dietary practices and environmental factors also likely contribute to

3245-433: The research to real-world situations. This database advances this goal by informing buyers and users of power tools of the dangerous levels of noise and vibrations that they are exposed to while using the tools. By making people aware of how loud power tools actually are, NIOSH is attempting to encourage the design and production of quieter power tools and the proper use of hearing protectors when using such tools. The database

3304-610: The tool is suspended by cables and set to operate at full speed. For the loaded condition, the tool is used by a researcher to perform the task for which it was designed while another researcher runs the data acquisition programs. After data are collected, they are verified and analyzed before being entered into the NIOSH Power Tools Database. Currently, the NIOSH Power Tools Database contains sound and vibrations data for 166 power tools, including 11 different types of tools from 18 manufacturers. Testing on additional power tools

3363-862: The tools battery safety and monitoring systems and the use is done at the user's own risk. There are initiatives with the goal that the same battery can be used across products from several manufacturers, mostly those who offer special tools rather than general ones. Mainly two German companies have opened their 18V systems for others: Power tools include: Brand under license from Electrolux . [REDACTED]   United States [REDACTED]   United States [REDACTED]   China [REDACTED]   China A number of companies, some of which are comparatively small and specialized, build niche solutions for industry and trade. [REDACTED]   Japan [REDACTED]   Germany [REDACTED]   China With purchases from other manufacturers and OEM production and licensed

3422-463: The user. As Henry Ford adapted to the manufacturing needs of World War II , he requested that A. H. Peterson, a tool manufacturer, create a lighter electric drill that was more portable for his assembly line workers. At this point, the Hole-Shooter, a drill that weighed 5 lbs. was created by A. H. Peterson. The Peterson Company eventually went bankrupt after a devastating fire and recession , but

3481-509: Was a water wheel or (later) a steam engine. The introduction of the electric motor (and electric distribution networks) in the 1880s made possible the self-powered stationary and portable tools we know today. The global market for power tools is $ 33 billion (in 2016) and estimated to reach $ 46 billion in 2025. Prior to the 1930s, power tools were often housed in cast metal housings. The cast metal housings were heavy, contributing to repetitive use injuries, as well as conductive - often shocking

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