Personal Protective Equipment
Power tools present more hazards than hand tools due to the speed at which they operate. There are distinct differences between the PPE suggested for use with hand tools and the PPE recommended for safe power tool use.
Eye protection, such as safety glasses or goggles, is especially important when using power tools. The speed in which drills, saws, grinders, sanders and routers operate can propel small particles much faster and farther than do hand tools. Others working around the area where power tools are used should also wear protective eyewear. Certain power tools may require using a face shield, in addition to safety glasses or goggles. For example, a face shield is recommended while using a grinder, due to the amount of hot metal particles generated.
Standard cotton or leather work gloves can protect your hands from minor scrapes and cuts while working with various materials. Cut-resistant gloves are not designed for, or capable of providing protection against a moving blade or bit. The best way to prevent injury from moving parts is to keep your hands on the tools’ handles and keep all guards in place. Anti-vibration gloves minimize the vibration created by hammer drills and rotary hammer drills.
Safety footwear is recommended when using power tools. Power tools are heavy and can cut you. Safety shoes with a nonslip, insulated sole and a steel toe protect against dropped objects and misdirected electricity.
The higher sound levels generated by some power tools, especially if used over extended periods of time, may require the use of earplugs or earmuffs. Even the use of a dust respirator may be necessary in sanding and cutting operations. Each situation must be analyzed to determine the type of PPE that is required for the safe use of each type of power tool.
Along with PPE, proper attire is also important while using power tools. Tie back or cover long hair, wear loose fitting clothes and remove all jewelry to avoid being caught in moving blades.
Proper Work Practices
Portable power tools are designed for a wide variety of uses. Circular saws, jig saws, drills, hammer drills, sanders, grinders, routers and numerous other power tools save us time and effort on the job. The growing popularity of cordless battery-operated tools is putting power tools to use in more places than ever before, heightening the need for awareness of the dangers they present if not operated properly. The following safety rules are common to all power tools. In addition, each type of tool has its own unique hazards, which must be taken into account.
- Read the owner’s manual to understand the tools proper applications, limitations, operation and hazards
- Do not use electric power tools in the proximity of flammable vapors, dusts or construction materials. Also avoid using electric power tools in wet environments
- Protect yourself from electric shock by insuring your tools are properly grounded; use a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter for corded tools
- Always check for hidden wires that may contact bladed tools
- Select a tool based on the task for which it is designed
- Only use attachments specifically recommended for your power tools, and ensure their proper installation
- Inspect tools for damage including the cord, presence of guards, correct alignment, binding of components, or any condition that would affect the operation of the tool
- If a tool is damaged, or a condition develops while a tool is in use, have the tool fixed before using it again
- Avoid excessive force to make cutting tools cut faster; feed material only as fast as the tool is designed to accept to prevent excessive wear and decreased control
- Keep others away from the work area, or provide shields to stop flying debris and other distractions
- Always maintain tool control by keeping a tight grip on a tool
- Maintain your balance and do not overreach
- Do not operate a power tool if you are under the influence of medications or alcohol, or if you are tired or distracted
- Secure your work in a vise or clamp for increased stability
- Use the tools side handle, if available, for better control
- Verify that all tools are unplugged or that the power source is removed when changing blades, performing maintenance or when tools are not in use
- Be sure adjustment knobs are tightened and remove any adjustment keys before use
- Keep tools in a secure location when not in use
- Avoid unintentional tool start-up by keeping your finger off of the power switch