Hand tool safety is incredibly important. Here are some policies you should consider implementing:
- Employers should not issue or permit the use of unsafe hand tools, including tools that may be furnished by employees or employers.
- All hand tools must be appropriately maintained.
- Proper training must be given to all employees to ensure users know the hazards of each piece of equipment
- Tools should only be used for their designed purpose.
- Inspect tools and equipment to make sure that they are in proper working order.
- Tools must be kept clean and checked for defects.
Employees should be encouraged to:
- Ask how to use a piece of equipment or a tool if you are unfamiliar with it.
- Never force the tool if it is stuck.
- Use extra caution when using a sharp tool.
- Ensure always be sure that proper guards are in place.
- Always wear shatter-resistant eye protection with side shields when working with a tool or equipment which can make materials airborne.
- Be sure all electrical tools are grounded before using them. Use double insulated (internal ground) cords or ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCI, especially if any moisture or water is near.
- Always turn off a machine when there’s a problem, adjustment, cleaning, or repair required. Utilize the lock/out tag/out program to prevent accidental turn-on of equipment.
- Be sure to shut off gasoline-powered equipment before refueling.
Finally, only trained employees should be allowed to operate powder-actuated tools. All powder-actuated tools shall be tested daily before use, and all defects discovered before or during use need to be corrected.
