If an employee brings their own tools to work, who is responsible for the tools' safety?

In the scenario where an employee brings their own tools to work, the responsibility for the safety of those tools typically falls on the employer. Employers have a legal obligation to ensure a safe work environment, which extends to the tools and equipment used on the job site, regardless of ownership.

While employees may be expected to maintain their personal tools and ensure that they are in safe working condition, it is the employer's responsibility to ensure that any tools brought onto the job site meet safety standards. Employers must assess the tools for safety, provide appropriate training on their use, and implement safety protocols to protect all workers. This responsibility underscores the employer's duty to maintain a safe working environment and comply with occupational safety regulations.

In this context, the other options do not accurately describe the responsibility dynamics. Although an employee must ensure their tools are safe to a reasonable extent, the overarching responsibility for workplace safety and compliance with safety regulations lies with the employer.