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Hand
tool accidents could be prevented if everyone who uses hand tools would
follow three simple rules:
1) Choose the right tool for the job.
2) Be sure the tool is in good condition.
3) Use the tool correctly.
After choosing the right tool for the job, check it over. Is the tool
in good shape? Is the pick or hammer handle secure and free of splinters?
Is the cold chisel burred? Is the hand saw sharp?
Use all tools the way they were meant to be used. If
the tool is defective, turn it in and ask for a replacement. Always turn
in tools at the end of the job. You are responsible for the inspection
of all tools, and should tag or mark any defective tools for immediate
repair.
Even a good tool must be used properly. Here are some
precautions to take when using some common tools. When using hand saws,
keep them sharp with teeth properly set and clean. Be careful when using
your thumb as a guide to start a cut.
When using chisels, have a mushroomed head dressed before using the chisel,
wear your goggles and when possible use a chisel bar holder instead of
holding a cold chisel when it is struck by someone else.
Discard worn wrenches having jaws that will not hold and be sure the adjusting
screws are free of rust. Never use a wrench as a hammer.
Don't use a file as a pry bar and never use a file without a handle. Keep
the file clean to reduce slipping hazards.
Never use a screwdriver in place of a pry bar or chisel. Use the screwdriver
that fits the screw. Have points dressed if bent, worn or broken. Use
an insulated handle screwdriver on all electrical work.
When using a hammer be sure it has a securely wedged handle suited to
the type of head. If the handle is wooden or fiberglass, watch out for
splinters. Remember that carpenter or claw hammers are designed for driving
or drawing nails. They should never be used to strike a cold chisel or
other hardened steel tools. CHECKLIST HAND
AND PORTABLE POWERED TOOLS
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Are
all tools and equipment (both company and employee owned) used by
employees at their workplace in good condition? |
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Are hand
tools such as chisels and punches, which develop mushroomed heads
during use, reconditioned or replaced as necessary? |
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Are broken
or fractured handles on hammers, axes and similar equipment replaced
promptly? |
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Are worn
or bent wrenches replaced regularly? |
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Are appropriate
handles used on files and similar tools? |
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Are employees
made aware of the hazards caused by faulty or improperly used hand
tools? |
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Are appropriate
safety glasses, face shields, etc. used while using hand tools or
equipment which might produce flying materials or be subject to breakage? |
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Are jacks
checked periodically to ensure they are in good operating condition?
|
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Are tool
handles wedged tightly in the head of all tools? |
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Are tool
cutting edges kept sharp so the tool will move smoothly without binding
or skipping? |
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Are tools
stored in dry, secure locations where they won't be tampered with?
|
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Is eye
and face protection used when driving hardened or tempered spuds or
nails? |
Portable
(Power Operated) Tools and Equipment
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Are grinders,
saws and similar equipment provided with appropriate safety guards?
|
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Are power
tools used with the correct shield, guard, or attachment, recommended
by the manufacturer? |
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Are portable
circular saws equipped with guards above and below the base shoe?
Are circular saw guards checked to assure they are not wedged up,
thus leaving the lower portion of the blade unguarded? |
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Are rotating
or moving parts of equipment guarded to prevent physical contact?
|
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Are all
cord-connected, electrically operated tools and equipment effectively
grounded or of the approved double insulated type? |
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Are effective
guards in place over belts, pulleys, chains, sprockets, on equipment
such as concrete mixers, and air compressors? |
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Are portable
fans provided with full guards or screens having openings ½
inch or less? |
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Is hoisting
equipment available and used for lifting heavy objects, and are hoist
ratings and characteristics appropriate for the task? |
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Are ground-fault
circuit interrupters provided on all temporary electrical 15 and 20
ampere circuits, used during periods of construction? |
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Are pneumatic
and hydraulic hoses on power operated tools checked regularly for
deterioration or damage? |
References:
Hand
and Power Tool Guidance 1926.300
General requirements 1926.301
Hand tools 1926.302
Power operated hand tools 1926.303
Abrasive wheels and tools 1926.304
Woodworking tools
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