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810 Hand and Power Tool Safety
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Powder-Actuated Tools

To prevent the tool from firing accidentally, three separate motions should be used for firing:

  1. Bring the tool to the firing position
  2. Press it against the target surface (wall).
  3. Pull the trigger.

The tool must not be able to operate until it is pressed against the work surface with a force of at least 5 pounds (2.2 kg) greater than the total weight of the tool.

If a powder-actuated tool misfires initially, hold it in the operating position for at least 30 seconds and then try to fire it again.

If it still does not fire after a second attempt, hold it in the operating position for another 30 seconds and then carefully remove the load in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Place the bad cartridge in water immediately after removal. This procedure will make the faulty cartridge less likely to explode.

If the tool develops a defect during use, it should be tagged and must be taken out of service immediately until it is properly repaired.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

6-7. What should you do if your powder-actuated tool initially misfires?