Hand Power Tool Safety

  1. Read and familiarize yourself with the manufacturer’s instructions, including precautions and how to respond to an emergency.
  2. Use recommended protective equipment, such as safety goggles, clothing, earplugs, dust masks, or gloves and avoid loose clothes, ties, or jewelry.
  3. Make sure that the tool is in good working order, including the cord, switch, and any protective guarding.
  4. Make sure that safety guards are in place, in working order, and properly adjusted.
  5. Never modify a tool for a job it’s not intended to do.
  6. Keep safety switches in working order. Do not bypass or replace them with standard switches.
  7. Avoid accidental starts by keeping hands away from switches while carrying plugged-in or battery-powered tools.
  8. Avoid using tools if you are taking strong medications, are drowsy, or have been consuming alcohol.
  9. Keep work areas well-lit and free of clutter.
  10. Never use electric power tools in damp or wet locations.
  11. Have observers remain a safe distance away from the work area.
  12. Keep good footing and maintain good balance.
  13. Store tools in a dry place that is not above your head.

Hydraulic/Pneumatic Tools

  1. Do not point a charged compressed air hose at bystanders or use it to clean your clothing.
  2. Lock and/or tag tools “Out of Service” to prevent usage of a tool that is not operating properly.
  3. Do not use tools with handles that have burrs or cracks.
  4. Do not use compressors if their belt guards are missing. Replace the belt guards before using the compressor.
  5. Turn the power switch of the tool to “Off” and let it come to a complete stop before leaving it unattended.
  6. Disconnect the tool from the air line before making any adjustments or repairs to the tool.

Drills

  1. Do not use dull, cracked or bent drill bits.
  2. Ensure that the power cord is in good condition.
  3. Do not lock the power switch in the on position.
  4. When drilling loose material, clamp or otherwise secure the material.
  5. Be aware of what is behind the material being drilled.

Grinders

  1. Do not use grinding wheels that have chips, cracks or grooves.
  2. Do not use the grinding wheel if it wobbles. Tag it “Out of Service” and discard it.
  3. Do not try to stop the wheel using your hand, even if you are wearing gloves. To prevent your gloves from getting caught by the grinding wheel, hold the work-piece by using vise-grip pliers, clamps, or a jig.
  4. Maximum angular exposure of the grinding wheel periphery and sides: the safety guards used on hand held portable grinding machines should not exceed 180 degrees.
  5. Angular exposure of the grinding wheel periphery and sides: the safety guards used on bench and floor stands should not exceed 90 degrees, or one-fourth of the periphery. This exposure should begin at a point not more than 65 degrees above the horizontal plane of the wheel spindle.
  6. Adjust the tongue guard so that it is no more than 1/8 inch from the grinding wheel.
  7. Keep the tool rest adjusted to no more than 1/8 inch from the grinding wheel.

Jacks

  1. Do not exceed the jack’s rated lifting capacity, as noted on the label of the jack.
  2. Clear all tools, equipment and any other obstructions from under the vehicle before lowering the jack.
  3. Set jack on a firm level surface.