TOOLS AND INDUSTRIAL EQUIPMENT Electromagnetic Compatibility Guide

For Implantable Cardiac Devices

Tools and Industrial Equipment

It is important that your power tools and/or equipment be in good working order and properly wired (three-prong plug, if applicable) and used as intended by the manufacturer of the product. It is recommended that corded electrical items be plugged into a safety outlet device called a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI or GFI).

  No Known Risk

If the item is used as intended and in good working condition, there is no known risk:

  • Calipers – battery powered
  • Flashlight – battery powered
  • Laser Level
  • Soldering Iron
  • Stud Finder

  Minimal Risk

Maintain at least a 6-inch distance between the item and your heart device:

  • Circular Saw – skill saw
  • Drills – battery and electric powered
  • Electric Chainsaw
  • Grinder (hand-held)
  • Hedge Trimmer – electric powered
  • Lawn Mower – electric powered
  • Leaf Blower – electric powered
  • Reciprocating Saw (Sawzall®)
  • Router
  • Sander
  • Screwdriver – battery powered
  • Soldering Gun
  • Weed Whacker – electric powered

  Special Considerations

Maintain at least the recommended distance between the item and your heart device:

12-Inch Distance

  • Boat Motor
  • Car Battery Charger – 100 amps or less
  • Gasoline Ignition Systems – from components of ignition system
  • Gasoline Powered Tools – from components of ignition system (lawn mower, snowblower, weed whacker, chainsaw)

2-Foot Distance

  • Bench Mounted/Free Standing Tools – for motors 400 horsepower or less (air compressor, drill presses, grinder, pressure washer, table saw)
  • Jumper Cables
  • Welding Equipment
    (with currents under 160 amps, see FAQ)

Not Recommended

  • Welding Equipment
    (with currents over 160 amps, see FAQ)