Also sometimes referred to as a ‘corner sander’, a detail sander is specially shaped to make getting into tight corners and edges easier. If you do a lot of woodwork, it’s a tool you’re likely to find extremely useful as it’ll save you both time and effort when it comes to getting surfaces as smooth as possible.
Detail sanders safety
Detail sanders are generally very safe to use as long as you follow the manufacturer’s instructions and take a few sensible precautions before and during use.
Safety first
- Make sure you buy your detail sander from a reputable dealer, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
- It’s important to register a new detail sander with the manufacturer so that you can be contacted if a safety notice or recall is required. It also makes it easier for you to return a faulty product or order a repair. To register any of your appliances, regardless of age, visit our Product Registration page.
- Use our free online checker to see if you have any recalled electrical items.
- Check that your appliance has a UK plug; if it doesn’t, don’t try to use a UK travel adaptor. Get in touch with the retailer and ask them to fit a UK plug.
- Do regular checks of the plug and socket for burn marks, sounds of ‘arcing’ (buzzing or crackling) or if it feels too hot to touch. If you have fuses blowing or circuit-breakers tripping then contact a registered electrician to investigate.
- Any socket you plan to use to plug in a detail sander should have RCD (residual current device) Protection. An RCD is a life-saving device that protects against dangerous electric shock and reduces the risk of electrical fires. If you don’t have RCD protection in your fuse box for your sockets, consider using an RCD plug to protect you and your property from serious appliance faults.
- Before you start work, ensure that the cord is long enough to easily reach the area you’re working in – if it isn’t, plug the detail sander into a fully-unwound extension lead to extend your reach.
Using your detail sander safely
- Always ensure that the tool is switched off or disconnected from the power supply before you attach the sandpaper, or fit or remove the dust canister.
- Wear appropriate eye protection; a dust mask is also a good idea.
- Keep loose clothing and jewellery away from moving parts.
- Make sure the item you’re sanding is properly secured.
- Check that the ventilation slots of the sander are clear of dust and debris before you begin.
- Never attempt to sand lead-based paint as this can lead to lead poisoning.
- Apply gentle pressure when using the sander; being heavy-handed can lead to mistakes.
- Metal parts of the sander may become hot during use, so take care when handling.
- Always unplug when not in use, and store your detail sander somewhere dry and frost-free.