Power Tool Safety

1. Portable or battery powered, bench, and floor mounted tools have the potential for struck-by hazards that can result in cuts, lacerations, amputations, and other severe injuries.

2. Injuries with tools often happen when workers fail to use them correctly, fail to select the right tool for the job, and by removing safety guards. Guards provide physical barriers that prevent access to hazardous areas. If a tool comes with a guard, it is likely there for a reason.

3. Power tools need to be inspected before each use. When power tools are not inspected or maintained, hazards and injuries can occur such as electrical shock, cuts, amputations, eye injuries, and puncture wounds.

4. Power tools typically require routine maintenance. Check the operator manuals for the maintenance schedule and confirm that it's being performed at the correct intervals.

5. Check that the tool is free of paint, grease, oil, or dirt. If there is an excess of material build up, take the time to clean off the tool before inspection. When tools aren't clean, it's possible a hazard or defect could be hidden

6. Inspect guards and safety devices, and never remove or pin back guards. Inspect for damage such as cut or frayed cords, cracks, or signs of electrical damage. Always check the grounding pin.

7. If any power tool, cord, guard, safety device or accessory is damaged it must be tagged and removed from service immediately.

8. Always choose the right tool for the job. If possible, perform a pre-job inspection and assess tools for use. Only use electrical tools that have a proper grounding pin or are designed with double insulated protection.

9. Keep cords away from heat and sharp edges. Always use the proper attachments, handles, and grips provided by the manufacturer. Secure work, not tools, with clamps or a vise to free both hands to operate the tool.

10. Disconnect tools from the power source when not in use, when changing attachments, or during maintenance. Never carry any tools by the power cord and never yank the cord to disconnect it from the power source.

11. Be sure to keep stable footing and maintain good balance while using electrical tools. Do not use electrical tools in wet conditions unless they are approved for that use.

12. Wear personal protective equipment(PPE) that will provide additional protection when using electrical tools like leather gloves and safety glasses. Avoid wearing loose clothing or jewelry that can get caught in a tool’s moving parts. Be sure to tie long hair back.

13. When finished, clean off your tool before storing away to keep in good condition. Never clean with flammable solvents, but with an approved cleaning solvent, a clean rag, and use a brush if warranted.

14. In what ways do you use power tools at work?

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