diff --git a/code/game/objects/items/weapons/powerfist.dm b/code/game/objects/items/weapons/powerfist.dm
index 87f48d7b799..c2b33e30083 100644
--- a/code/game/objects/items/weapons/powerfist.dm
+++ b/code/game/objects/items/weapons/powerfist.dm
@@ -31,6 +31,9 @@
 
 /obj/item/melee/powerfist/attackby(obj/item/W, mob/user, params)
 	if(istype(W, /obj/item/tank/internals))
+		if(!iscarbon(loc))
+			to_chat(user, "<span class='warning'>You have to hold the powerfist in your hand!</span>")
+			return
 		if(!tank)
 			var/obj/item/tank/internals/IT = W
 			if(IT.volume <= 3)