Hand and Power Tools
Hand and power tools are a common part of our everyday lives and are present in nearly every industry. These tools help us to easily perform tasks that otherwise would be difficult or impossible. However, these simple tools can be hazardous and have the potential for causing severe injuries when used or maintained improperly.
Special attention toward hand and power tool safety is necessary in order to reduce or eliminate these hazards. Use the following safe work practices:
- Use appropriate safety glasses, face shields, and PPE while using hand tools or equipment that might produce flying materials or be subject to breakage.
- Ensure that all tools and equipment used are in good condition.
- Never wear loose clothing or jewelry when operating power tools with moving parts.
- Inform workers of the hazards caused by faulty or improperly used hand tools.
- Recondition or replace hand tools, such as chisels, punches, etc., which develop mushroomed heads.
- Keep tool cutting edges sharp so that tools move smoothly without binding or skipping.
- Ensure tool handles are wedged tightly into the heads of all tools.
- Replace broken or fractured handles on hammers, axes, and similar equipment.
- Store tools in a dry, secure location where tampering is not possible.
- Replace worn or bent wrenches.
- Do not use compressed air at 30 p.s.i. or greater to clean tools. Ensure proper guarding and PPE is used when using compressed air.
For more information on the safe use of hand and power tools, download OSHA Publication 3080.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
4-10. When operating tools with moving parts, which of the following may be worn?
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