Clarke CR2 Installation and operation manual

OPERATING & MAINTENANCE
INSTRUCTIONS 0706
Part No. 6460200
12mm SOFT START ROUTER
MODEL No. CR2
Part No. 6462075
12mm SOFT START ROUTER

IMPORTANT NOTE:
This manual is intended to instruct the user on the operations peculiar to
the CR2 Router ONLY. Although some reference is made to routing
applications, it should not be regarded as a general tutorial on the subject.
It is assumed that the user has some knowledge of tools of this type,
and is familiar with routing techniques and applications. If this is not
the case, we strongly recommend that the user seek professional advice
and tuition before using this tool.
SPECIFICATIONS
Elec. Supply ..................................................................................... 230V 50Hz 1 ph
Elec. Class ........................................................................................ II
Motor Power Rating ....................................................................... 2100W
Fuse Rating ...................................................................................... 13amp
No Load Speed .............................................................................. 7,400-21,600 RPM *
Max. Plunge Depth ........................................................................ 60 mm
Collet Size - Fitted ........................................................................... 1/2”
Dust Extraction Adapter Port Size ................................................. 22mm
Net Weight ...................................................................................... 6.5 kg
Guaranteed Sound Power Level: ................................................ 107.3 dBL WA
Vibration Level ................................................................................ 4.7m/s2 **
Dimensions ...................................................................................... 319x323x140
* Speed Settings are shown on page 12.
** See Vibration Emission notes on pages 16 and 27
2
When disposing of this product, do not dispose of with normal household waste. Dispose of according to all local ordinances
CHECK LIST
1 x Carry case.
1 x User Instruction Manual.
1 x Router.
1 x Parallel Fence.
2 x Guide Rods.
1 x Spanner.
1 x 16mm Template Guide Bush.
1 x 30 mm Template Guide Bush.
15 x Cutting Bits (Various).
1 x 1/4” collet
1 x 3/8” collet
(1 x 1/2” collet - fitted)
© Copyright Clarke International. All rights reserved, March 2006
Please note that the details and specifications contained herein, are correct at the time of going to print. However,
CLARKE International reserve the right to change specifications at any time without prior notice.

Thank you for purchasing this CLARKE Soft Start Router which is designed for DIY and light
industrial use ONLY, for routing wood, wood products and plastic.
Before attempting to use the machine, please read this manual thoroughly and follow the
instructions carefully. In doing so you will ensure the safety of yourself and that of others
around you, and you can look forward to the router giving you long and satisfactory service.
GUARANTEE
This product is guaranteed against faulty manufacture for a period of 12 months from
the date of purchase. Please keep your receipt which will be required as proof of
purchase.
This guarantee is invalid if the product is found to have been abused or tampered
with in any way, or not used for the purpose for which it was intended.
Faulty goods should be returned to their place of purchase, no product can be
returned to us without prior permission.
This guarantee does not effect your statutory rights.
CONTENTS
Specifications .................................................................................................... 2
Safety Precautions for Power Tools ................................................................ 4
Additional Safety Precautions for Routers ..................................................... 5
Electrical Connections ..................................................................................... 6
Assembly Instructions ....................................................................................... 7
Adjustments ....................................................................................................... 9
Depth of Cut ................................................................................. 9
Multi-Stop Turret ............................................................................ 10
Micro-Adjuster .............................................................................. 10
Operation ........................................................................................................ 11
Cutter Speeds ............................................................................... 12
Troubleshooting ................................................................................................ 12
Maintenance .................................................................................................... 12
Parts and Service Contacts ............................................................................. 13
Parts Lists and Diagrams .................................................................................. 14 - 15
Vibration Emission Notes .................................................................................. 16
Declaration of Conformity .............................................................................. 17
3

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
WARNING:
As with all machinery, there are certain hazards involved with their operation
and use. Exercising respect and caution will considerably lessen the risk of
personal injury. However, if normal safety precautions are overlooked or
ignored, personal injury to the operator or damage to property, may result.
1. ALWAYS learn the machines applications, limitations and the specific potential
hazards peculiar to it. Read and become familiar with the entire
operating manual.
2. ALWAYS use a face or dust mask if operation is particularly dusty.
3. ALWAYS check for damage. Before using the machine, any damaged
part, should be checked to ensure that it will operate properly, and
perform its intended function.
Check for alignment of moving parts, breakage of parts, mountings,
and any other condition that may affect the machines’ operation. Any damage should
be properly repaired or the part replaced. If in doubt, DO NOT use the machine. Consult
your local dealer.
4. ALWAYS disconnect the tool/machine from the power supply before servicing and
when changing accessories.
5. ALWAYS wear safety goggles, manufactured to the latest European Safety Standards.
Everyday eyeglasses do not have impact resistant lenses, they are not safety glasses.
6. ALWAYS keep work area clean. Cluttered areas and
benches invite accidents.
7. ALWAYS ensure that adequate lighting is available. A
minimum intensity of 300 lux should be provided. Ensure that
lighting is placed so that you will not be working in your own
shadow.
8. ALWAYS keep children away. All visitors should be kept a safe
distance from the work area, especially whilst operating the
machine.
9. ALWAYS maintain machine in top condition. Keep tools/machines
clean for the best and safest performance. Follow maintenance
instructions.
10. ALWAYS handle with extreme care do not carry the tool/machine
by it’s electric cable, or yank the cable to disconnect it from the
power supply .
11. ALWAYS ensure the switch is off before plugging in to mains. Avoid
accidental starting.
12. ALWAYS concentrate on the job in hand, no matter
how trivial it may seem. Be aware that accidents are
caused by carelessness due to familiarity.
13. ALWAYS keep your proper footing and balance at all
times - don’t overreach. For Best footing, wear rubber
4

14. ALWAYS wear proper apparel, loose clothing or jewellery
may get caught in moving parts. Wear protective hair
covering to contain long hair.
15. ALWAYS use recommended accessories. The use of improper
accessories could be hazardous.
16. ALWAYS remove plug from electrical outlet when adjusting,
changing parts, or working on the machine.
17. ALWAYS keep handles clean and free from oil and grease.
18. NEVER leave machine running unattended. Turn power off.
Do not leave the machine until it comes to a complete stop.
19. NEVER force the machine. It will do a better and safer job at
the rate for which it was designed.
20. NEVER use power tools in damp or wet locations or expose
them to rain. Keep your work area well illuminated. Do not
use in explosive atmosphere (around paint, flammable
liquids etc.). Avoid dangerous environment.
21. NEVER operate machine while under the influence of drugs,
alcohol or any medication.
ADDITIONAL PRECAUTIONS FOR ROUTERS
1. ALWAYS wear ear protectors/defenders as the noise level of this machine can exceed
95dBL WA
2. ALWAYS use the appropriate cutter etc., for the material being cut.
3. ALWAYS keep the mains cable well away from the machine and ensure an
adequate electrical supply is close at hand so that the operation is not restricted
by the length of the cable.
4. ALWAYS switch the machine OFF immediately the task is completed.
5. ALWAYS use cutters with a shank diameter corresponding to the collet installed in
your machine.
6. ALWAYS allow sufficient clearance beneath the work to ensure the cutter does not
come into contact with the floor, table etc.
7. ALWAYS ensure the cutter is fully tightened before use.
8. NEVER allow the ventilation slots in the machine to become blocked.
9. NEVER use the machine if the electric cable, plug or motor is in poor condition.
10. NEVER remove router from work until the cutter has completely stopped.
11. NEVER use the router on second hand timber, e.g. doors, floorboards etc. unless all nails,
screws and staples have been removed beforehand. Nails will severely damage the cutter.
NOTE : Replacement cutters are available from your CLARKE dealer.
WARNING: The use of spare parts or accessories, other than those supplied by CLARKE
International or one of its recognised dealers, may be hazardous and could invalidate
the guarantee.
Additionally, please keep these instructions in a safe place for future reference.
5

ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS
This product is provided with a standard 13 amp, 230 volt (50Hz), BS 1363 plug, for
connection to a standard, domestic electrical supply. Should the plug need changing at
any time, ensure that a plug of identical specification is used.
WARNING
This appliance is Double Insulated, and the two wires in the mains lead should
be wired up in accordance with the following colour code:
BLUE - NEUTRAL
BROWN - LIVE
• Connect the BLUE coloured cord to the plug terminal marked a letter “N”
• Connect the BROWN coloured cord to the plug terminal marked a letter “L”
If this appliance is fitted with a plug which is moulded on to the electric cable (i.e. non-
rewireable) please note:
1. The plug must be thrown away if it is cut from the
electric cable. There is a danger of electric shock
if it is subsequently inserted into a socket outlet.
2. Never use the plug without the fuse cover fitted.
3. Should you wish to replace a detachable fuse
carrier, ensure that the correct replacement is
used (as indicated by marking or colour code).
4. Replacement fuse covers can be obtained from
your local Clarke dealer or most electrical stockists.
FUSE RATING
The fuse in the plug must be replaced with one of the same rating (13 amps) and this
replacement must be ASTA approved to BS1362.
If in doubt, consult a qualified electrician. Do not attempt any electrical repairs yourself.
CABLE EXTENSION.
Always use an approved cable extension suitable for the power rating of this tool (see
specifications), the conductor size should also be at least the same size as that on the
machine, or larger. When using a cable reel, always unwind the cable completely.
NEVER
6
For Spare Parts and Service, please contact your nearest dealer,
or CLARKE International, on one of the following numbers.
PARTS & SERVICE TEL: [phone]
PARTS & SERVICE FAX: [phone]
or e-mail as follows:
PARTS: [email protected]
SERVICE: [email protected]
PARTS & SERVICE CONTACTS

Fig. 1
Note :
Always ensure router is isolated from the mains supply, by switching off and removing the
plug from the socket.
1. Installing And Changing Router Bits
1.1 Rotate spindle whilst pushing the spindle lock inwards until spindle is locked, (hold lock on).
1.2 Using the wrench supplied, loosen the collet nut a few turns and remove bit if fitted.
1.3 Insert new bit and tighten collet nut, release spindle lock.
IMPORTANT: At least two thirds of the cutter shank should be located inside the collet .
ASSEMBLY
WARNING
Never tighten the collet nut without a router bit inserted
(Damage to the Collet will result)
7

3. Fitting The Template Guide Bush
Fit the template guide, to the router base from
underneath, as shown in Fig.3, with the screws
used to secure the transparent plastic dust cover.
Replace the screws and tighten, taking care not
to overtighten.
NOTE: The Guide Bush allows the user to duplicate
a particular shape, that shape being used as a
template.
The template is fixed firmly to the workpiece and
the complete assembly fixed firmly to a
workbench. The Router is moved along the edge
of the template with the guide held carefully
Fig. 3
against its edge. Because the diameter of the guide is larger than the cutter, there will be
always be a certain offset to consider.
4. Fitting The Roller Guide
A Roller Guide is provided which replaces the
parallel Guide. This provides greater versatility,
allowing either straight line cuts, or contour cut-
ting to take place, depending upon the shape
of the template.
To assemble the guide, proceed as follows:
4.1 Remove the parallel fence by unscrewing
and pulling off the Microadjuster knob, as
illustrated in Fig.4.
Fig. 4
2. Fitting The Parallel Guide
2.1 Insert the rods into the guide body,
securing with the screws provided
2.2 Fit the assembled guide to the
router as shown in Fig. 3.
2.3 Secure using the locking screws
provided
NOTE: The parallel guide allows the user
to follow a straight edge with
accuracy.
It is always advisable to make a trial cut
in a piece similar to that to be worked
where possible.
Precise measurements are possible, using the microadjuster, indicated in Fig.2.
Fig. 2
Micro Adjuster
Locking Screw
8

3.2 Undo and remove the two screws securing
the Keep Plate, arrowed in Fig.5.
Fig. 5
3.3 Replace the parallel Fence with the Roller
Guide, in the manner shown in Fig.6, ensuring
it slides neatly and freely on the base.
Fig. 6
3.4 The roller follows either a template, or the
edge of the workpiece, as shown in Fig.7.
Fig. 7
Setting Depth Of Cut for Plunge Routing
With the appropriate cutter installed, noting that plunge cutters and combination plunge
and side cutters are available, proceed as follows:
ADJUSTMENTS
Lock nut
Adjuster
Rod
Multi
Stop
Turret
Fig. 7
1. Release the plunge locking Lever (see Fig. 1) to allow
the main body to rise to its fullest extent.
NOTE: The main body is fully extended, when there is no
load on the microadjuster. Turn the microadjuster
anticlockwise so that when the main body is fully
extended, the adjuster may be easily turned clockwise
AND anticlockwise.
2. If necessary, raise the scale (simply loosen the depth
stop lock knob in order to pull it upwards) so that
the adjuster rod, see Fig.7, is clear of the multi stop
turret, then turn the turret to the highest position
directly beneath the adjuster rod.
3. With the router resting on the workpiece, pull
back the plunge locking lever and gently
plunge the router until the cutter just touches
the work surface, ensuring the adjuster rod does
not make contact with the turret. Release the
plunge locking lever to lock it in place.
9

4. Slacken the Depth Stop Lock Knob and push
the scale down until the Adjuster Rod touches
the highest step possible on the turret.
5. Line the red line on the scale magnifier with
one of the graduations on the scale...zero if
it is available, then, holding the magnifier steady,
wind the scale up, using the scale adjuster, the
number of graduations, as viewed in the
magnifier, commensurate with the total depth
of cut required - 1 graduation = 1mm
Lock the scale (and hence the adjuster rod)
by tightening the Depth Stop Lock Knob.
Your Plunger is now set.
NOTE:
When making a deep cut, it is advisable to make
more than one pass to achieve the desired depth.
The depth of cut achievable with each pass
depends greatly on the size of cutter and the
material being worked. Excessive depth of cut will
Fig. 8
Scale
Magnifier
Scale
Adjuster
Depth Stop Lock Knob
unduly labour the motor, place excessive strain on the cutter, make the router more difficult
to control and significantly reduce the quality of the cut being made.
The multi depth stop turret can be used to assist in making multiple passes.
Using the turret in this manner removes the necessity for resetting the adjuster rod for
each pass. Each stop on the turret is approx. 3mm.
Using The Multi-Stop Turret
When using the turret stop, the depth of cut should be set using one of the lower steps
on the turret (see above).
With the total depth set, the router is raised fully and the turret turned to a higher step
to restrict the depth of cut, as required, until the final cut is made from the original
turret step.
Take a test plunge (see Operation) and measure the depth. Small adjustments can be
made by adjusting the micro adjuster on the top of the machine.
Fig. 9
Using The Microadjuster
Each graduation on the microadjuster scale = 1mm,
i.e. from 1 to 2 =10mm.
The microadjuster is zeroed by holding the knob whilst
turning the registration collar (see Fig.9) which will
move independently of the knob when held. This
may be very stiff when new.
Ensure there is no load on the microadjuster knob - it
should turn freely in both directions...if not, unscrew
(turn anticlockwise) until it does, then carefully turn it
clockwise until reasonable resistance is felt.
At this point, hold the knob whilst turning the registration collar to register zero then release
the collar so that the knob and collar turn as one.
Advancing the knob further will increase the depth of cut by 1mm per graduation .
10

Direction Of Feed
The router motor and therefore the
cutter, revolves in a clockwise
direction. This gives the tool a tendency
to twist anticlockwise in your hands,
particularly when starting the tool.
The Router should always be moved
from left to right as you are facing the
workpiece see Fig.10.
Feed Rate
The rate at which the router is moved across the material has a significant effect on the
quality of cut and the length of service you will get from your router and cutters.
Moving too fast through the cut could overload and damage the cutter, causing a rough
and uneven finish.
Moving too slowly, tends to cause burning of the material and if excessive, will cause the
cutter to overheat, therefore blunting and shortening its expected life.
The proper feed rate to use depends on the cutter size, the material being cut, the depth
of the cut and the speed selected.
With all these variables, the surest way to ensure that you get the best quality and efficiency
of cut, is to practice on a piece of scrap of the same material to get a feel for what feed
rate to use. This will also show you exactly how the cut will look and allow you to check the
cutting depth.
General
1. Always ensure the workpiece is firmly secured.
2. Place router on the workpiece with the cutter in the position to be cut, e.g. cutter
just in front of start position - for edge profiling, and the guide firmly pushed up to edge
of the work.
3. With the router held firmly, pull and hold the plunge locking lever then push down on
the plunger body fully....the depth stop should be pre-set. At this point, release the
plunge locking lever, and tighten to lock the cutter at its predetermined depth.
4. Switch the router on by pushing the safety button IN - see Fig.1, and pulling the ON/OFF
trigger switch. Allow the motor to reach full speed. (The speed controller is located on
the top of the router (see Fig. 1), The higher the number the greater the speed. See
Cutter Speed Selection on page 12. Proceed to feed the cutter into the workpiece.
To stop the Router, simply release the trigger.
OPERATION
Fig.10
11

Cutter Speed Selection
The greater the diameter of the cutter, the slower the rotational speed. This is in order to
produce as constant speed as possible at the cutting edge.
Recommendations for this Router are as follows, for soft wood:
Diameter Speed Setting Speed
Up to 25mm ............................. 6 .............................. 21,600RPM
25 - 35mm ............................... 5 .............................. 21,000RPM
25 - 50mm ............................... 4 .............................. 18,000RPM
50 - 65mm ............................... 3 .............................. 16,000RPM
65 - 75mm ............................... 2 .............................. 12,000RPM
Over 75mm .............................. 1 ............................... 7,400RPM
Only use cutters of the correct shank diameter and are suitable for the max.
speed for this Router
TROUBLE SHOOTING
Router is overheating
This indicates the machine is dirty. Clean the ventilation holes, and blow out with compressed
air or clean with a dry cloth.
Overloading the machine will also cause overheating. Do not use for heavy duty work, and
do not apply excessive pressure.
Excessive sparking occurs
This indicates worn brushes. This problem is quickly remedied but you should consult your
CLARKE dealer for parts and advice.
Router does not operate when switched ON
Check to ensure the fuse is sound and replace if necessary. If the fuse is sound or blows
repeatedly, consult your CLARKE dealer.
MAINTENANCE
Always inspect the tool before use, and ensure it is in top condition.
Ensure all air vents are clear, (use compressed air to clean the machine where possible).
Check the power cable to ensure it is sound and free from cracks, bare wires etc. avoid
using solvents when cleaning plastic parts, most plastics are susceptible to damage from
the various types of commercial solvents.
All bearings etc., in this tool are lubricated with a sufficient amount of high grade lubricant for the
tools lifetime under normal operating conditions, therefore no further lubrication is required.
Dust Extraction
The Router is provided with a dust extraction outlet, where a vacuum extractor may be
connected. An adapter is provided for this purpose. Please note however, that this does
not preclude the user from wearing a face mask to prevent the inhalation of dust particles.
It is an EU requirement that a dust extraction facility be provided on power tools, however,
due to the nature of the tool, some of the dust produced will be forced into the surrounding
atmosphere, and will not be collected. Always therefore wear a face mask.
12

No. Description Qty Part No No. Description Qty Part No
234 Switch 1 HTCR2234
235 Plastic Tube 1 HTCR2235
236 Pin 1 HTCR2236
237 Tube 1 HTCR2237
238 C-ring 1 HTCR2238
239 Right Handle Cover 1 HTCR2239
240 Right Handle 1 HTCR2240
241 Spring 1 HTCR2241
301 Screw 2 HTCR2301
302 Micro Adjuster Knob 1 HTCR2302
303 Screw 9 HTCR2303
304 Top Cover 1 HTCR2304
305 Inductance 2 HTCR2305
306 Rubber Bush 1 HTCR2306
307 Cable Clamp 1 HTCR2307
308 Screw M4x16 5 HTCR2308
309 Housing 1 HTCR2309
310 Brush Holder 2 HTCR2310
311 Carbon Brush 2 HTCR2311
316 Washer 05 2 HTCR2316
317 Spring Washer 2 HTCR2317
318 Screw M5x80 2 HTCR2318
319 Sleeve 1 HTCR2319
320 Screw M5x40 4 HTCR2320
321 Left Handle Cover 1 HTCR2321
322 Left Handle 1 HTCR2322
323 Screw 1 HTCR2323
324 Twist Spring 1 HTCR2324
325 Release Lever 1 HTCR2325
326 Screw M5xl4 1 HTCR2326
327 Middle Cover 1 HTCR2327
328 Screw 4 HTCR2328
329 Frame Spring 2 HTCR2329
330 Lock-pin 1 HTCR2330
331 Lock-pin 1 HTCR2331
501 Adjuster Knob 1 HTCR2501
502 Rubber Insert 1 HTCR2502
503 Adjuster Knob 1 HTCR2503
504 Screw 2 HTCR2504
505 Clip 1 HTCR2505
506 Side Fence Frame 1 HTCR2506
507 Parallel Guide 2 HTCR2507
508 Slide Frame 08 1 HTCR2508
509 Flat Washer 2 HTCR2509
510 Csk Head Screw 4 HTCR2510
511 Body 1 HTCR2511
512 Adjuster Screw 1 HTCR2512
513 Slider Rod 2 HTCR2513
514 1/4” Collet 1 HTCR2514
515 Wrench 1 HTCR2515
516 Template Guide 1 HTCR2516
101 Screw M4xl0 6 HTCR2101
102 Base Pad 1 HTCR2102
103 Screw M5xl0 9 HTCR2103
104 Transparent Cover 1 HTCR2104
105 Butterfly Screw 6 HTCR2105
106 Tube 1 HTCR2106
107 Screw M6x12 2 HTCR2107
108 Dust Port 1 HTCR2108
109 Tube 1 HTCR2109
110 Circlip 2 HTCR2110
111 Spring 1 HTCR2111
112 Adjuster Nut 1 HTCR2112
113 C-ring 1 HTCR2113
114 Spring Tube 1 HTCR2114
115 Washer 1 HTCR2115
116 Adjuster Bolt 1 HTCR2116
117 Tube 1 HTCR2117
118 C-ring 1 HTCR2118
201 Power Cord 1 HTCR2201
202 Soft Start 1 HTCR2202
203 Terminal Block 1 HTCR2203
204 Screw 4 HTCR2204
205 Left Depth Frame 1 HTCR2205
206 Right Depth Frame 1 HTCR2206
207 Fan Cover 1 HTCR2207
208 Scale Magnifier 1 HTCR2208
209 Scale Adjuster Knob 1 HTCR2209
210 Bearing Sleeve 1 HTCR2210
211 Bearing 1 HTCR2211
212 Scale 1 HTCR2212
213 Armature 1 HTCR2213
214 Slide 1 HTCR2214
215 Lock Nut 1 HTCR2215
216 Microadjuster Screw 1 HTCR2216
217 Bearing Cover 1 HTCR2217
218 Tube Cover 2 HTCR2218
219 Base 1 HTCR2219
220 Ball Bearing 1 HTCR2220
221 Spring 1 HTCR2221
222 Steel Ball 1 HTCR2222
223 Turret Stop 1 HTCR2223
224 Dustproof Cover 1 HTCR2224
225 Spring 7 HTCR2225
226 1/2" Collet 1 HTCR2226
227 Clamp Nut 1 HTCR2227
228 Screw 1 HTCR2228
229 C-ring 1 HTCR2229
230 Insulation Cover 1 HTCR2230
231 Junction Box 1 HTCR2231
232 Clip 1 HTCR2232
233 Depth Lock Knob 1 HTCR2233
14

PARTS DIAGRAM
15

VIBRATION EMISSIONS
Employers are advised to refer to the HSE publication “Guide for Employers”.
All hand held power tools vibrate to some extent, and this vibration is transmitted to the
operator via the handle, or hand used to steady the tool. Vibration from about 2 to 1500
herz is potentially damaging and is most hazardous in the range from about 5 to 20 herz.
Operators who are regularly exposed to vibration may suffer from HandArm Vibration
Syndrome (HAVS), which includes ‘dead hand’, ‘dead finger’, and ‘white finger’. These
are painful conditions and are widespread in industries where vibrating tools are used.
The health risk depends upon the vibration level and the length of time of exposure to
it……in effect, a daily vibration dose.
Tools are tested using specialised equipment, to approximate the vibration level generated
under normal, acceptable operating conditions for the tool in question. For example, a
grinder used at 45° on mild steel plate, or a sander on soft wood in a horizontal plane
etc.
These tests produce a value ‘a’, expressed in metres per second per second, which
represents the average vibration level of all tests taken, in three axes where necessary,
and a second figure ‘K’, which represents the uncertainty factor, i.e. a value in excess of
‘a’, to which the tool could vibrate under normal conditions. These values appear in the
specification panel below.
HAND-ARMVIBRATION
16
MODEL No: CR2
DESCRIPTION: PLUNGE ROUTER
Declared vibration emission value in accordance
with EN12096
Measured vibration emission value - a: 4.7 m/s2
Value determined according to EN28622-1
Youwill note thatathirdvalueis given inthespecification-the highest measuredreadingin
a single plane. This is the maximum level of vibration measured during testing in one of the
axes, and this should also be taken into account when making a risk assessment.
‘a’ values in excess of 2.5 m/s2are considered hazardous when used for prolonged periods.
Atool with a vibration value of 2.8 m/s2may be used for up to 8 hours (cumulative) per day,
whereas a tool with a value of 11.2 m/s2may be used for ½ hour per day only.

The graph below shows the vibration value against the maximum time the respective tool
may be used, per day.
17
The uncertainty factor should
also be taken into account when
assessing a risk. The two figures
‘a’ and ‘K’ may beaddedtogether
and the resultant value used to
assess the risk.
It should be noted that if a tool is
used under abnormal, or unusual
conditions, then the vibration
level could possibly increase
significantly. Users must always
take this into account and make
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
their own risk assessment, using the graph above as a reference.
Some tools with a high vibration value, such as impact wrenches, are generally used for
a few seconds at a time, therefore the cumulative time may only be in the order of a few
minutes per day. Nevertheless, the cumulative effect, particularly when added to that of
other hand held power tools that may be used, must always be taken into account when
the total daily dose rate is determined.