Working with hand and power tools is an inevitable part of our lives. It may seem a simple concept, but these tools bring many safety concerns that deserve your attention.
Click here to discover a range of tools that help create a safe workplace and contribute to your project’s success.
While all tools are manufactured with all safety measures in place, accidents happen before you can identify the tool-related hazards.
Fortunately, there are ways to prevent these accidents and help you perform the job effectively.
Hazards of Power Tools
There are three major causes of power tool injuries:
Unexpected Turn of Events: Power tools operate at high speeds and, as such, cause accidents to happen quickly.
These unexpected events end badly if the operator lacks understanding of the tool’s operations, is inexperienced, or plans its use poorly.
Inattention: Hurrying to meet deadlines leads to inattention while using power tools and increases the risk of an accident.
Regardless of your competency, never deviate your attention while working with these tools.
Overconfidence or Inexperience: Inexperienced operators are often prone to accidents, owing to a lack of safety knowledge and respect for the equipment.
Hence, a potentially dangerous situation may be overlooked and cause damages.
Likewise, overconfidence may cause us to overlook the importance of safe handling and inflict painful lessons on self and family.
Precautionary Measures
Power tools come in different kinds based on the power source used – pneumatic, electric, powder-actuated, and more.
Here are some general precautions to take while handling any power tool.
- Keep away the cords from sharp edges, oil, and heat
- Do not carry a tool by its hose or cord
- Avoid yanking the hose or cord for disconnecting the tool
- Always disconnect tools while changing accessories, before servicing and while not in use
- Keep all onlookers at a safe distance from your work area
- Try securing your work with clamps and use both hands to operate the tool
Hazards of Hand Tools
Hand tools do not need electricity for powering and include hammers, chisels, and axes.
Click here to find hand tools that fit the job you are doing and offer safe handling configurations.
However, Inappropriate use of these tools can cause injuries to elbow, hand, arm, shoulder, wrist injuries, and more.
Yet, it is possible to reduce the damages by following these safety tips.
Precautionary Measures
- Many tools like hammers and cutters work best when they are made from specific materials and heat treated. Hence, ensure to check the quality of your tool before purchase.
- Make it a point to use the right tool for the task. For instance, avoid using a chisel as a screwdriver or a wrench as a hammer. Also, remember to use a suitably sized tool for the task.
- Make regular inspections of hand tools and ensure they are in good shape and fit for your use. Perform routine maintenance by periodic sharpening or grinding.
- Dress for the job by avoiding loose clothes, neckties, and jewelry. Wear protective equipment like hard hats, gloves, and safety glasses before beginning with the project.
Hand and power tools make work efficient and easy when the right safety measures accompany them.
Click here for a one-stop destination that fulfills all your tools requirements.
Perform these safety audits the next time you use these tools and ensure the ultimate protection from the hazards.