Awkward Positions
Nailing in awkward positions where the nailer and its recoil are more difficult to control may increase the risk of injury. These include:
- toe-nailing;
- nailing above shoulder height;
- nailing in tight quarters;
- holding the nail gun with the non-dominant hand;
- nailing while on a ladder; or
- nailing when the user's body is in the line of fire (nailing towards yourself).
"Toe-nailing" is driving a nail in at a slant to secure floor joists to the plate. It’s more likely to cause an injury because the user cannot hold the gun flush against the workpiece.
Nailing from a ladder also makes it difficult to position the nail gun accurately. Nailing beyond a comfortable reach distance from a ladder, elevated work platform, or leading edge places the user at risk for a fall.
While injuries can happen with all trigger types when working in awkward positions, accidental discharges using single-action triggers are a special concern.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
3-5. Why is "toe-nailing" more likely to cause an injury?
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