Hand and power tools are such a typical part of the job that we often take them for granted. Nevertheless, using them can be extremely dangerous if you don’t follow the right safety procedures. Consider this, when you are striking a nail with a hammer, part of the hammer’s handle breaks off and hits you in the eye. How about when you break a bone when a press squashes your hand as you were attempting to adjust with slippery pliers instead of a wrench? Take a look at the following hand tool safety tips.

Keep Safety in Mind

To keep yourself safe, follow these fundamental guidelines:

• Keep all tools in good condition with routine maintenance.
  • If a wooden handle on a tool is loose, splintered or cracked, the head can fly off.
    If the jaws of a wrench are sprung, the wrench can slip.
  • If impact tools such as chisels, wedges or drift pins have mushroomed heads, they can shatter on impact.
• Use the right tool for the job.
  • If a chisel is used as a screwdriver, there is a danger of the tip flying off.
  • Each task calls for a specific tool. Never ever deviate.

Damaged Tools

• Examine each tool for damage prior to utilizing it and never ever utilize damaged tools. Alert your manager that these tools need repair.
  • Wrenches should not be used when the jaws are sprung; they can slip and lead to injury.
  • Tools used for cutting edges should be sharp. When utilizing them, dull tools can be more dangerous as you need to press harder.
• Operate tools according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Iron or steel tools produce triggers that can ignite flammable compounds. Check for spark-resistant tools made from alternative products when you are around combustible gases, volatile liquids, or other explosive products.
  • When utilizing sharp tools, direct the tools away from aisle areas and far from other employees working near to you.
• Use the right personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Loose clothing, ties or jewelry ought to never be used when utilizing hand or power tools.
• Store and transfer the tool correctly as soon as you are done with it.
  • Put the tool away as soon as you are finished with it. Leaving the tool in a pathway provides a tripping and impalement threat.
  • Transport tools in a toolbox or cart or bring them in a tool belt. Never carry pointed tools in your pocket.
  • Never toss tools to another worker. Constantly pass them with the handle towards the receiver.
  • Use a pail or bag for raising or lowering tools from one level to another.
  • When carrying a tool on your shoulders, pay attention to clearances and other workers.

Hand Tool Safety – Speak Up

If you have any doubt about the safe use of a hand or power tool– or about any safety problem on the job– talk to your supervisor. Your safety is the primary concern!

Also, speak to a TPG Insurance Service Specialist today! Just call 909.466.7876 and our diligent experts will take care of you. Besides providing assistance on the phone, we offer more information regarding your worker’s safety, like our Risk Management Software, developed to help you and your company keep thriving. Check it out now!