Handheld Deck Scalers

Choose air or electric first. For a pneumatic scaler give the air pressure available on deck and the hose connection; for an electric one give the voltage and frequency exactly — the group has separate 115 V and 230 V models. State the working width, and the model if the ship already carries spares for one.

On wet decks prefer the pneumatic version or a low-voltage supply: COSWP advises operating power tools in damp locations from no more than 50 V AC (30 V to earth) or 50 V DC, or otherwise using an isolating transformer or a residual current device tripping at 30 mA or less, and not using double-insulated tools outside the accommodation.^[1]

Ask for the maker’s declared vibration value, so the daily usable time can be worked out against the vibration limits below.^[1]

COSWP gives the daily hand-arm vibration limits set by the UK vibration regulations: an exposure action value of 2.5 m/s² A(8), above which exposure must be reduced, and an exposure limit value of 5 m/s² A(8). It advises against using reciprocating tools for more than 30 minutes without a break unless the risk assessment indicates a shorter period.^[1]

COSWP also asks for whip checks or safety valves between sections of pneumatic hose, tool pieces to be secured with their retaining devices refitted after a change, no change of tool pieces while the tool is connected to power, and hearing and eye protection where noise or flying particles arise.^[1]

Work in a potentially explosive atmosphere calls for equipment certified for it: ATEX-compliant equipment carries the CE mark and the Ex symbol. The scalers in this group are not described as Ex-certified; explosion-proof scalers are a separate IMPA group.^[2]