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810 Hand and Power Tool Safety
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Powder-Actuated Tools

Powder-actuated tools, like "Hilti guns" or "Ramset guns," operate like a loaded gun and must be treated with extreme caution. In fact, they are so dangerous that they must be operated only by specially trained employees.

Fastening with a Ramset Gun

Powder-actuated fastening tools must be tested each day before loading to ensure that the safety devices are in proper working condition. Any tool found not to be in proper working order must be immediately removed from service until repairs are made.

When using powder-actuated tools, an employee must wear suitable ear, eye, and face protection. The user must select a powder level-high or low velocity-that is appropriate for the powder-actuated tool and necessary to do the work without excessive force.

The muzzle end of the tool must have a protective shield or guard centered perpendicular to and concentric with the barrel to confine any fragments or particles that are projected when the tool is fired. A tool containing a high-velocity load must be designed not to fire unless it has this kind of safety device.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

6-5. A powder-actuated tool operates like _____.