Main hazards

• Cuts and punctures when handling edges and points.
• Clothing, hair or gloves getting caught in the rotating auger flight.
• Sudden twist and kickback if the auger jams, with risk of sprains or loss of control.
• Ejection of chips, dust or fragments of the material, and even tool breakage.
• Accidental perforation of cables, pipes or other concealed services.
• Overheating of the tool or the material with a risk of burns.
• Vibration and awkward postures that may cause fatigue or discomfort.
• Impacts or entrapment of feet and hands when using manual augers on the ground.

Safe use

• Check compatibility with the machine (shank, clamping system and direction of rotation). Fit and remove with the machine switched off and unplugged, or with the battery removed.
• Inspect before use: straightness, sharpness, absence of cracks and fixings in good condition.
• Use protective equipment where appropriate: safety glasses, close-fitting cut-resistant gloves, hearing protection and a dust mask/respirator suitable for the material.
• Secure the workpiece firmly or work on a stable base. Keep the area clear and well lit.
• Check there are no cables, pipes or concealed services in the drilling area; use detectors when necessary.
• Set speed and feed pressure progressively; start straight and at low speed. Do not force the tool or block chip evacuation.
• Keep hands, clothing and hair away from the auger flight. Remove chips only when the auger has come to a complete stop, using a brush.
• Hold the machine firmly (preferably with both hands) and adopt a stable stance to react in case of a possible snag.
• Withdraw the auger periodically to clear material and prevent overheating. Allow it to cool before touching the cutting edge.
• Replace or sharpen the auger if it becomes dull, vibrates excessively or produces unusual noises.
• When used on soil or ice, advance slowly, keep your feet away from the auger flight and take extra care on stony or uneven ground.

Storage and maintenance

• Clean after use to remove dust, resins, mud and moisture. Dry thoroughly to prevent corrosion.
• Apply a thin layer of protective oil where appropriate and fit protective caps on tips and cutting edges.
• Store in cases or hung up, separate from other tools to avoid nicks and accidental cuts. Keep out of reach of children.
• Store in a dry place, without exposure to rain, frost or extreme heat.
• Periodically check wear, straightness and the condition of the shank. Discard augers that are bent, cracked or deformed.
• Sharpen only in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions or by a specialist service; incorrect sharpening increases the risk of snagging.
• Check the tightness and condition of screws or joints before each use.

Restrictions on use

• Do not use augers that are damaged, excessively rusty, have broken cutting edges or exhibit play.
• Do not exceed the machine’s capacity or use makeshift adapters.
• Do not use the auger as a lever, chisel or punch, and do not strike it with a hammer.
• Do not modify the length or make welds or extensions to the flight.
• Do not work near easily flammable materials if sparks or heat from friction may be generated; clean away any build-up of fine dust.
• Do not drill overhead without additional guarding and secure clamping.
• Do not allow use by minors; inexperienced persons must be supervised.
• Do not attempt to clear jams or change the auger with the machine powered.
• Do not wear loose gloves, wide sleeves, jewellery or accessories that could become entangled.