Proper Use of Hand and Power Tools

General Tool Safety Rules

Before Using Any Tool

• Select the right tool for the job
• Inspect for damage or defects
• Ensure guards and safety features are in place
• Verify proper operation
• Know how to use it properly
• Wear appropriate PPE

Safe Work Practices

• Keep work areas clean and well-lit
• Maintain solid footing and balance
• Secure work with clamps or vise when possible
• Keep hands away from cutting edges and moving parts
• Focus on the task - avoid distractions
• Don't rush the job
• Put tools down safely when not in use

Tool Maintenance

• Keep tools clean and dry
• Maintain sharp cutting edges
• Follow lubrication requirements
• Store properly when not in use
• Remove damaged tools from service
• Have repairs done by qualified persons

Hand Tool Safety

Cutting Tools (Knives, Saws, Chisels)

• Keep cutting edges sharp
• Cut away from your body
• Use with both hands when design allows
• Store with edges protected
• Pass handles first to others
• Secure workpiece before cutting

Striking Tools (Hammers, Sledges, Mallets)

• Inspect handles for cracks or splinters
• Ensure head is secure on handle
• Strike squarely with the face of the head
• Wear eye protection to guard against flying chips
• Don't use as pry bars
• Don't strike hardened steel with steel hammers

Wrenches and Pliers

• Pull toward you instead of pushing when possible
• Use correct size for the job
• Don't use cheater bars or extensions
• Position your body to prevent falls if the tool slips
• Don't use as hammers
• Avoid using on moving machinery

Screwdrivers

• Use correct type and size for the screw
• Keep tips properly ground and squared
• Never hold work in your hand while screwdriving toward it
• Don't use as pry bars, punches, or chisels
• Don't put screwdrivers in pockets
• Use insulated handles for electrical work

Power Tool Safety

General Power Tool Guidelines

• Use tools with proper guards
• Disconnect from power source when changing accessories
• Avoid accidental starting (don't carry with finger on switch)
• Secure work with clamps or vise
• Maintain firm grip with both hands when possible
• Keep cords and hoses away from heat, oil, and sharp edges
• Remove all adjustment keys and wrenches before turning on

Electric Tools

• Use tools with three-prong plugs or double insulation
• Keep work area dry
• Use GFCI protection, especially outdoors or in damp locations
• Inspect cords for damage before use
• Don't carry tools by their cords
• Don't yank cords to disconnect them
• Keep cords away from heat, oil, and sharp edges

Pneumatic Tools

• Secure hose connections with wire, pins, or clips
• Install safety clips on impact tools to prevent accidental disconnection
• Never point at yourself or others
• Shut off air supply and bleed pressure before disconnecting
• Check manufacturer's recommendations for proper air pressure
• Secure tools to hose to prevent accidental disconnection

Specific Power Tool Safety

Circular Saws

• Keep guards in working order
• Check blade guard return springs
• Set blade depth to just clear material
• Allow saw to reach full speed before cutting
• Use both hands and proper stance
• Support material to prevent binding
• Allow blade to stop before setting saw down

Drills

• Secure material before drilling
• Use sharp bits of correct type for material
• Apply steady pressure when drilling
• Back off pressure when nearing breakthrough
• Remove bit from chuck immediately after use
• Never use your hands to stop a spinning chuck or bit

Grinders

• Let grinder reach full speed before applying to work
• Use the correct wheel for the material
• Inspect wheels for cracks before mounting
• Never remove guards
• Position yourself to avoid grinding debris
• Hold at 15-30 degree angle for optimum cutting
• Allow wheel to stop naturally, not by pressing against material

Power Saws (Table, Miter, Band)

• Keep all guards in place
• Use push sticks for small pieces
• Don't reach over or behind the blade
• Turn off and unplug before adjusting
• Keep blade clean, sharp, and properly set
• Feed material at proper rate
• Never leave running unattended

Sanders

• Move constantly to avoid overheating or gouging
• Keep both hands on tool
• Secure small workpieces
• Use dust extraction systems when possible
• Allow tool to reach full speed before contacting work
• Lift from work before stopping
• Clean dust collection systems regularly

Nail Guns and Staplers

• Treat as loaded at all times
• Keep finger off trigger when not firing
• Never point at yourself or others
• Disconnect air supply when clearing jams
• Never disable the safety contact tip
• Use sequential trigger instead of contact (bump) trigger when possible
• Check for hidden electrical wires or plumbing before firing

Battery-Powered Tool Safety

General Battery Tool Safety

• Use manufacturer-recommended batteries only
• Store batteries away from metal objects
• Keep batteries away from water
• Don't use damaged batteries
• Follow charging instructions
• Remove battery before changing accessories

Lithium-Ion Battery Precautions

• Protect from extreme temperatures
• Don't fully discharge batteries
• Inspect for damage or swelling
• Don't charge unattended
• Dispose of properly
• Store in fire-resistant container

Tool-Related Hazards and Prevention

Electrical Hazards

• Inspect cords and plugs before each use
• Use three-prong plugs in three-prong outlets
• Don't defeat grounding features
• Use GFCI protection
• Keep tools and cords dry
• Use double-insulated tools when possible

Flying Debris

• Always wear eye protection
• Consider face shields for high-risk operations
• Position work to direct debris away from others
• Use dust collection systems
• Keep guards in place
• Post warning signs when necessary

Noise Hazards

• Use hearing protection with noisy tools
• Minimize exposure time
• Maintain tools to reduce noise
• Consider noise levels when purchasing tools
• Position noisy operations away from others
• Get hearing checked regularly

Vibration Hazards

• Use anti-vibration gloves
• Take frequent breaks
• Hold tools loosely but securely
• Keep hands warm and dry
• Alternate between vibrating and non-vibrating tasks
• Report early symptoms (tingling, numbness)

When Not to Use Tools

• When you haven't been trained
• When guards or safety features are missing
• When tools are damaged
• When you're too tired or impaired
• In unsafe conditions (standing in water, etc.)
• When proper PPE isn't available
• When the wrong tool might seem "convenient"