Construction Safety Part 5: Hand and Power Tool Safety

Hand Tool Safety

Hand Tool Safety (Video 5A) Maybe not the safest way to use a hammer…

Hand Tool Safety Hand tools: One person at a time. Tools must be clean for a good grip. Make sure tools are not broken in any way such as loose heads of hammers or bent screw drivers. Never throw a tool. Pass it to the person handle extended. Alan Wrenches/ Files

Hand Tool Safety Stack tools on the central table when you are not using them. At the end of a work day, all tools are to be placed in the tool room. Keep tool rooms neat and organized. Framing Hammer

Sharp Tool Safety Keep all cutting tools sharp. Dull tools are extremely dangerous. Carry pointed down. Do not carry sharp tools in your pocket Keep both hands behind the driving edge. Knife (Drywall)

Sharp Tool Safety Cut away from your body. Don’t cut toward others. When using scissor type cutters, don’t pinch your fingers between the handles. Tin Snips

Power Tool Safety

Video Watch the following video on power tool safety. Write down as many facts as you can underneath the following headings when you see them: Keeping work area safe Electrical safety Chord-less power tools Develop good personal habits Proper use and care

Power Tool Safety (Video 5B)

Keep Your Work Area Safe Neat and clean Well lit Good Ventilation Dry Be aware of your surroundings

Electrical Safety Don’t alter chord prongs Never carry by the chord Don’t pull out of the wall by the chord Proper gage extension chords Check regularly for damage Use proper rated chord for outdoor/indoor use

Chord-less Power Tools Battery charger in dry locations Don’t short out battery contacts Recycle batteries. Don’t throw in the trash.

Develop Good Work Habits Common sense No alcohol or drugs Clothing that fits properly Appropriate PPE Make sure lock on switch is in off position Remove all wrenches and chucks

Proper Use and Care Mental checklist Check all guards Tool is clean Guards and moving parts move freely Never “adapt” a tool Material is secure Tools are in a balanced position Right tool for the right job

Proper Use and Care Two hand operation Use accessories designed for the tool Keep all blades and bits sharp Unplug when working on the tool Store tools properly Maintenance often Service by a certified repair person Read the manual

Power Tool Safety (additional) Never work in the shop unless the instructor is present. Work with machines only after you have been given proper safety training. Table Saw

Power Tool Safety (additional) Don’t attempt to repair any machine yourself. Only the operator and the instructor should be within a defined safety zone. Never crowd a machine. You may distract the operator. Miter Saw

Power Tool Safety (additional) Disconnect portable tools when not in use. During shut down, stay with your machine until it reaches a complete stop. Worm Drive Circular Saw

Power Tool Safety (additional) Keep any lose material or tools away from operating machinery. Follow safe lockout/tag-out procedures for broken tools Cordless Drill

Electrical Safety

Silent Predator Don’t take electricity for granted! (Video 5C)

Electrical Safety (additional) Electrical connections must be tight. Don’t overload outlets Don’t force plugs.

Electrical Safety (additional) Don’t place electrical cords near heat or water. Never touch or unplug a cord with wet hands.

Electrical Safety (additional) If equipment smokes, sparks, or smells, turn it off and unplug it. Report immediately.

One Last Word About Electricity (Video 5D)