Can we use electric power tools rated 15 to 20 ampere on construction sites?
As explained above, 15 ampere power tools can only be used on circuits rated 20 ampere. As a practical matter, many construction sites will only have 110 volt/15 ampere circuits. As discussed above, because of the power required to start a tool, you usually cannot use a 15 ampere tool on a 15 ampere circuit. Most circuits on construction sites have more than one receptacle, so in that case you would be prohibited from using a 15 ampere tool because there would be an overload when other equipment was used in the other receptacles. Question 6: Are there over-current tolerances? Answer: No, the standard does not provide over-current tolerances. Question 7: Are there States in which the branch circuits on construction sites must be rated 20 ampere (20 Ampere fuse) in order to be able to connect the 20 ampere “Twist-Lock” system? Answer: We do not know whether there are any such State requirements. If you need additional information, please contact us by fax at: U.S. Department of Labor, OS
