For many Australians, especially those of us who pride ourselves on a bit of DIY or have spent years on the tools, power tools are second nature.
But even the most experienced among us can fall victim to a moment’s lapse in safety—and the consequences can be life-changing.
That’s exactly what happened to a 71-year-old worker in Darwin, whose recent accident serves as a sobering reminder that age and experience don’t make us immune to risk.
A routine job turns into a nightmare
The man was working in an industrial shed, standing on a ladder and cutting steel wall frames above his head.
He started with a five-inch angle grinder—already a tool that demands respect—but, wanting to speed things up, he switched to a larger nine-inch grinder. That decision proved costly.
According to NT WorkSafe, the larger grinder ‘kicked back’ unexpectedly. In an instant, the spinning blade tore a massive gash from the man’s face, down his throat, and into his chest.
The injury was so severe that NT WorkSafe shared a confronting photo of the stitches required to close the wound.
Why did this happen?
NT WorkSafe’s investigation highlighted several factors that contributed to the accident:
Tool Choice: Nine-inch angle grinders are notoriously difficult to control, especially compared to their smaller counterparts. The extra power and size can make them unpredictable, particularly in awkward positions.
Working Position: Standing on a ladder while using a heavy, high-torque tool is a recipe for instability. The worker was not in a stable position, making it harder to react when things went wrong.
Overloaded Power Lead: There was also concern that the electric lead may have been overloaded, increasing the risk of malfunction or electric shock.
Lessons for all of us: Power tool safety essentials
Whether you’re a seasoned tradie, a weekend warrior, or just tackling the odd job around the house, this story is a powerful reminder to never take shortcuts with safety. Here are some key takeaways:
1. Choose the right tool for the job
Bigger isn’t always better. Nine-inch grinders are best left for jobs that truly require their power—and even then, only by those with the experience and strength to handle them safely.
Consider alternative tools or methods. Sometimes a smaller, more manageable tool is safer and just as effective.
2. Never compromise on stability
Avoid using heavy or high-torque tools while on a ladder. If you must work at height, use scaffolding or secure platforms that allow you to maintain your balance.
Always secure the item you’re cutting. Unstable workpieces can shift unexpectedly, increasing the risk of kickback.
3. Check your equipment
Ensure all power leads are in good condition and not overloaded. Only qualified professionals should modify or repair electrical equipment.
Inspect your tools before use. Look for signs of wear, damage, or malfunction.
4. Carry out a risk assessment
Before starting any job, take a moment to think through the risks. Is there a safer way to do this? Do you have the right equipment and protective gear?
Don’t rush. Accidents often happen when we’re trying to save time.
The importance of ongoing safety at any age
It’s easy to think, ‘I’ve been doing this for years, I know what I’m doing.’ But as this incident shows, complacency can be dangerous.
Our bodies change as we age—reflexes slow, strength diminishes, and balance can become more precarious. That makes it even more important to follow best practices and never cut corners.
What to do if an accident happens
If you or someone you know is injured while using power tools:
Seek medical attention immediately. Even seemingly minor cuts can become serious if not treated properly.
Report the incident. If it happens at work, notify your employer and the relevant safety authority.
Review what went wrong. Use the experience as a learning opportunity to prevent future accidents.
Have you had a close call?
We know many of our readers have decades of experience with tools and DIY projects. Have you ever had a near-miss or learned a hard lesson about safety?
What changes have you made to your routine as you’ve gotten older? Share your stories and tips in the comments below—your experience could help keep someone else safe.
Stay safe, stay smart
At the end of the day, no job is worth risking your health or your life. Take the time to do things safely, use the right tools, and never be afraid to ask for help or advice. Your loved ones—and your future self—will thank you.
Let’s keep the conversation going—what’s your number one safety tip for working with power tools?
Also read: Pregnant mum suffers injuries after freak accident—how safe are you?
