What should a technician do if a power tool has a 3-pronged plug but only 2-pronged outlets are available?

A technician should prioritize safety and compliance with electrical standards when faced with a situation where a power tool has a 3-pronged plug and only 2-pronged outlets are available. Locating a 3-pronged outlet is the best approach because it ensures that the power tool can be properly grounded. The third prong on the plug serves an important safety function, often providing a path for fault currents and reducing the risk of electric shock or equipment damage.

Using an adapter to convert to a 3-pronged configuration might seem convenient, but this can create a potential safety hazard because it may not provide adequate grounding unless specifically designed for that purpose. Ignoring the plug type and using the outlet not only violates safety practices but also puts both the operator and the equipment at risk. Finally, replacing the power tool with a 2-pronged model is not practical and may limit operational capabilities, especially since many modern tools are designed with 3-prong plugs for safety reasons. Therefore, the most responsible action is to locate a 3-pronged outlet.