Handheld Tool Safety Inspection

1. Are the handles on all hand tools secured tightly to the tool?

2. Are the handles on all hand tools free from cracks, breaks, splinters, bends, sharp edges, and makeshift repairs (like taped cracks)?

3. Are the handles of all hand tools free of oil, grease, lubricant, and/or any other material that could cause the user’s hand to lose their grip on the tool?

4. If used in close proximity to electricity, are the handles on all hand tools made of insulating material (such as rubber or other insulating material)?

5. Are the heads of all hand-held impact tools (e.g., hammers) firmly attached to their handle?

6. Are the tips of all hand-held impact tools (e.g., chisels or center-punches) relatively sharp, and are their heads free from burrs and/or a “mushroomed” head?

7. Are the tips of hand tools such as screwdrivers free of chips, breaks, bends, and/or twists?

8. Are the jaws on hand tools (e.g., crescent wrenches, pipe wrenches, regular wrenches, channel locks, pliers) free of excessive wear and, where applicable, securely attached?

9. Are all socket wrenches and attachments (e.g., sockets, extensions, swivels) free of cracks, worn attachment points, and/or worn gripping surfaces?

10. Are the blades on all hand-held cutting tools (e.g., knifes, box-cutters, and scissors) relatively sharp and free of beaks, chips, and/or twists?

11. Do retractable/self-sheathing blades on hand-held cutting devices (e.g., box cutters) operate smoothly and properly?