| Humans have been using hand tools since | | | | Keep cutting tools sharp. |
| prehistoric times. The evolution from the | | | | |
| primitive Stone Age tools to sophisticatedly | | | | Power Tool Hazards and Precautions |
| engineered tools has changed the way we | | | | |
| perform work today. Hand and power tools are | | | | Power tools could be extremely hazardous when |
| used daily to help perform tasks that | | | | used improperly. They must always be fitted |
| otherwise would be difficult or impossible. | | | | with guards and safety switches. Here are |
| However, the advances in tools have also | | | | some precautions you should take while |
| created new challenges for their users. Even | | | | handling such tools: |
| simple tools pose great hazards, and can | | | | |
| cause severe injuries if not used or | | | | Remember to disconnect all tools when they |
| maintained properly. In order to reduce or | | | | are not in use and also when their |
| eliminate these hazards, OSHA recommends that | | | | accessories are changed; |
| special attention should be paid toward hand | | | | |
| and power tool safety. In this article, some | | | | Before servicing and cleaning all tools must |
| basic precautions are discussed that can | | | | be disconnected from the power source; |
| prevent common injuries caused by hand and | | | | |
| power tools. | | | | People that are not involved with the work |
| | | | must be kept away from the work; |
| Hand Tool Hazards and Protection | | | | |
| | | | Never hold the switch button while carrying a |
| Usually, hand and power tool hazards are | | | | plugged-in tool; |
| caused through misuse and improper | | | | |
| maintenance. You should remember the | | | | Before starting to work, make sure both your |
| following when handling such tools: | | | | hands are free to operate the tool. You can |
| | | | do this by securing your work with clamps or |
| Do not use wrenches when their jaws are | | | | a vice; |
| sprung; | | | | |
| | | | Do not wear loose clothing and jewelry that |
| Never use impact tools, such as chisels and | | | | can get caught in moving parts; |
| wedges, when their heads have mushroomed; | | | | |
| | | | Damaged electric tools must be removed and |
| Tools with loose, cracked or splintered | | | | tagged with the words: "Do Not Use"; |
| handles should never be used | | | | |
| | | | Portable tools should never be carried by |
| You must never use a screwdriver as a chisel; | | | | their cord; |
| | | | |
| Tools with taped handles should be checked | | | | Electric cords must not be used to hoist or |
| first for any hidden cracks; | | | | lower tools; |
| | | | |
| Use Personal Protective Equipment, such as | | | | All cords and hoses must be kept away from |
| safety goggles and gloves; | | | | oil, heat and sharp edges at all times. |
| | | | |
| Keep floor surface where working free from | | | | Remember, it can only take one mistake! So be |
| debris and tripping or slipping hazards; | | | | sensible and stay safe. |
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