Patient Services 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 (15 cm) 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 (30 cm)
- 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 (.6 m)
- 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 FAQs)
Not Recommended
- Welding Equipment
(with currents over 160 amps, see FAQs)