A die grinder is just one of many tools frequently used by modern ice sculptors.

*updated 12/11/11



Ever since you were little, you’ve known that electricity and water don’t mix. If you carve ice with power tools at above freezing temperatures, then you definitely have to keep this in mind. But it’s not the same thing as someone throwing you a clock radio or a hair dryer while you’re taking a bath. Because when I carve, I usually wear insulated gloves and boots. The rubber in my boots and gloves gives me some measure of protection from a shock. Also, the purity of the ice that I and most other sculptors use also helps a little; pure water, unlike tap water, is a lousy conductor. But since a bad day with electricity could be your last day, always proceed with extra caution and CONSULT AN ELECTRICIAN IF THERE’S ANY QUESTION ABOUT SAFETY!

Electricity always wants to find the quickest, easiest way to ground. If that way is through you, you have a problem.

Quick tips:
Use GFCIs (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter)
No exposed circuits
Rubber gloves and boots
Double insulated tools
Common sense approach (i.e., Don’t spray ice at an electrical outlet, etc.)
Awareness of where your electrical cords are
If you feel any electricity, find and fix the problem!



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Tags: safety, accidents