Dangerous Tools Course – Safe Use of Machinery and Power Tools
A dangerous tools course is mandatory training for anyone who uses machinery and power tools that may pose a risk of injury. Angle grinders, bolt guns, nail guns, chainsaws, and other dangerous tools are responsible for a significant number of workplace accidents each year in construction. Proper training and certification dramatically reduce the risk and are a requirement under the Working Environment Act.
Komplett HMS offers dangerous tools courses online that can be completed 100% digitally. The course is available in several languages, and you receive a digital course certificate immediately after passing the knowledge test.
Legal Requirements for Dangerous Tools Training
Several laws and regulations require training for the use of dangerous tools:
- Regulations on the Performance of Work § 10-1 and § 10-4: The employer must ensure that employees who use work equipment have received the necessary training, practice, and instruction.
- Machinery Directive: Sets requirements for the safe use and maintenance of machinery.
- Working Environment Act § 3-2: The employer is obliged to provide training in the safe use of work equipment.
- Regulations on Organization, Management, and Participation § 8-1: The employer must identify hazards associated with the use of work equipment and conduct a risk assessment.
- Internal Control Regulations: Requirements for documentation of training and systematic HSE work.
Insufficient training in the use of dangerous tools is one of the most common reasons for orders from the Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority on construction sites. Employers who cannot document that employees have received training risk penalty fees and work stoppage.
What do you learn in the course?
The dangerous tools course covers all topics required by the regulations:
- Legal requirements and regulations for the use of dangerous tools
- Risk assessment before using machinery and tools
- Safe use of angle grinders, bolt guns, nail guns, and circular saws
- Correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Inspection and maintenance of tools before and after use
- Ergonomics and prevention of strain injuries
- Emergency procedures and first aid in case of accidents
- Employer and employee duties
Who needs a dangerous tools course?
The course is mandatory for anyone who uses power tools and machinery at work. Employers are obliged to ensure that training is completed before work begins. Typical occupational groups:
- Carpenters and joiners
- Concrete workers
- Plumbers
- Painters
- Construction workers
- Industrial workers
- Apprentices and new employees in the construction industry
- HSE managers and safety representatives
Examples of dangerous tools
The following tools are considered dangerous and require documented training:
- Angle grinder – One of the most dangerous tools on the construction site, with a risk of cuts and kickbacks
- Circular saw and miter saw – Can cause severe cuts if used incorrectly
- Bolt gun and nail gun – Projectiles can cause penetration injuries
- Chainsaw – Requires special training due to high risk of injury
- Stationary machines – Drill press, lathe, milling machine, and similar
- Cutting machine – For steel and concrete with a risk of kickbacks and particles
In short: all machine-powered tools that can cause serious injury if used incorrectly require training.
Consequences of insufficient training
Using dangerous tools without documented training can have serious consequences:
- Workplace accidents – Incorrect use of power tools is one of the most frequent causes of serious injuries in construction
- Orders from the Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority – Lack of training documentation leads to immediate orders during inspections
- Work stoppage – The Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority can stop all work with dangerous tools until training has been completed
- Liability for damages – The employer can be held liable for injuries if training is not documented
- Insurance consequences – Lack of documentation can affect insurance coverage in case of accidents
Course format and practical information
The dangerous tools course is 100% web-based and takes approximately 3–4 hours to complete. You can take the course anytime, on a PC, mobile, or tablet. The course material is practical and relevant, with images and examples from real work situations.
The online course covers the theoretical training. The employer must also provide practical training and instruction on the specific tool to be used at the workplace.
After passing the knowledge test, you will receive a digital course certificate immediately. The course certificate serves as documentation to the Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority. The course is available in several languages, ideal for multilingual work teams in construction.
Order dangerous tools course here »
Combine with HSE course for employees and fall protection course for a complete safety package for new employees.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dangerous Tools Course
Which tools are considered "dangerous tools"?
Examples include angle grinders, circular saws, bolt guns, nail guns, chainsaws, cutting machines, and stationary machines. In short: all machine-powered tools that can cause serious injury if used incorrectly.
Is an online tool course sufficient?
The online course covers the theoretical training required. The employer must also provide practical training and instruction on the specific tool to be used. See our guide on risk assessment for tips.
Can apprentices take the course?
Yes, the course is ideal for apprentices and new employees who need basic training in the safe use of tools before they start practical work. Read more about who needs an HSE course.
How often should the training be renewed?
It is recommended to renew the training every 2–3 years, or when new tools or work methods are introduced. The employer is responsible for assessing the need for new training.
Why choose Komplett HMS?
- 100% online – Take the course at home, at the barracks, or in the office
- Available in several languages – No language barrier for training
- Course certificate immediately – No waiting time for a certificate after passing the knowledge test
- 5 out of 5 stars on Google – Norway's best-rated HSE course provider
- Wide selection – All HSE courses for construction collected in one place
Do you have questions about dangerous tools courses for your company? Contact us by phone at 466 66 467 or email at kundeservice@kompletthms.no.