Preventing power tool accidents

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), hand and power 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.

OSHA’s “Hand and Power Tools” booklet offers information on best practices for safely using these tools.

Here are some of the highlights from the booklet:

• When using power tools, OSHA says that appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety goggles and gloves must be worn to protect against hazards that may be encountered during use.

• Workplace floors shall be kept as clean and dry as possible to prevent accidental slips with or around dangerous hand tools.

• Power tools must be fitted with guards and safety switches, as they are extremely hazardous when used improperly. The types of power tools are determined by their power source: electric, pneumatic, liquid fuel, hydraulic, and powder-actuated.

To prevent hazards associated with the use of power tools, workers should observe the following general precautions:

• Never carry a tool by the cord or hose.

• Never yank the cord or the hose to disconnect it from the receptacle.

• Keep cords and hoses away from heat, oil and sharp edges.

• Disconnect tools when not using them, before servicing and cleaning them, and when changing accessories such as blades, bits and cutters.

• Keep all people not involved with the work at a safe distance from the work area.

• Secure work with clamps or a vise, freeing both hands to operate the tool.

• Avoid accidental starting. Do not hold fingers on the switch button while carrying a plugged-in tool.

• Maintain tools with care; keep them sharp and clean for best performance.

• Follow instructions in the user’s manual for lubricating and changing accessories.

• Be sure to keep good footing and maintain good balance when operating power tools.

• Wear proper apparel for the task. Loose clothing, ties or jewelry can become caught in moving parts.

• Remove all damaged portable electric tools from use and tag them: “Do Not Use.”