Power Tool Institute Launches New Website and Updated Safe-Operation Guide
The Power Tool Institute (PTI) has rolled out a redesigned website and released an updated edition of Safety Is Specific, its flagship guide for safe operation of portable and stationary power tools. The launch expands PTI’s digital resources and refreshes one of the industry’s most widely used safety publications.
A Redesigned Website Built for Faster Learning
PTI’s new website aims to streamline navigation for tradespeople, educators and consumers who rely on the organization for safety guidance. The updated layout highlights tool-specific resources, instructional videos, product category guidance and battery safety information. The redesign also aligns with PTI’s recent rebrand, which introduces a unified look across its education materials. Visitors can download publications, access video training modules and browse tool categories without hunting through outdated menus. The site also centralizes battery disposal guidance and links to national safety agencies.
Updated Safety Is Specific Guide
The new edition of Safety Is Specific brings detailed safety instructions for nearly two dozen tool categories. The publication blends general safety rules with tool-specific best practices and highlights hazards, setup procedures and operating precautions.
Topics include:
- General safe-work habits
- Accessory selection and inspection
- Corded and cordless power management
- Specific cautions, warnings and dangers across major tool groups
The content now reflects updated terminology, expanded battery guidance and clarifications for modern jobsite environments. As the publication states, the goal is to highlight safe use of tools that can cause injury if used incorrectly.
Deep Category Coverage Inside the Guide
The new release covers a broad range of tools used across construction, carpentry, metalworking and shop environments. Each section offers step-by-step safety direction tailored to real tasks.
A sample of the categories included:
- Circular saws and miter saws
- Band saws and reciprocating saws
- Grinders and rotary tools
- Sanders and heat guns
- Drill presses, hammer drills and rotary hammers
- Routers, shapers and table saws
Each category outlines hazards like kickback, pinching and binding, then explains proper setup, handling, cutting approach and shutdown procedures. Many sections also include specific dimensional rules, accessory requirements or tool-support guidance, such as extension cord ratings, blade-set requirements and guarding standards.
Expanded Battery and Charging Guidance
The updated guide adds detailed lithium-ion battery management instructions. Topics include safe storage, charger selection, thermal runaway risks and recycling requirements. The publication includes battery disposal steps and stresses the need to use OEM-approved chargers and packs. This section is especially relevant as compact equipment owners increasingly rely on battery-powered hand tools for jobsite maintenance, accessory installation and general construction work. For more info, find the guide right here.
Keith Gribbins is publisher of Compact Equipment.
