Safety First when Using Power Tools

A power tool is a tool powered by an electric motor. The addition of the motor, usually electric but possibly pneumatic or hydraulic, reduces the work required by the user, and sometimes makes it possible for the user to do things that are difficult or impossible to do by hand. Virtually every type of tool can be a hand tool, although many have also been adopted as power tools which get their motive power from engines rather than from people. Examples of power tools includes; Drill, is a tool with a rotating drill bit used for drilling holes in various materials. Heat Gun is a device used to emit a stream of hot air. Sander/ Angle grinder is a power tool used to smooth wood and automotive or wood finishes.

Prior to each use, power tools should be inspected thoroughly for any damage. To do this, here are some tips:

1. Check the handle and body casing of the tool for cracks or other damage.
2. If the tool has auxiliary or double handles, check to see that they installed securely.
3. Inspect cords for defects: check the power cord for cracking, fraying, and other signs of wear or faults in the cord insulation.
4. Check for damaged switches and ones with faulty trigger locks.
5. Inspect the plug for cracks and for missing, loose or faulty prongs.

If a tool is defective, remove it from work place area, and tag it clearly "Out of service for repair".  Replace damaged equipment immediately and never use defective tools "temporarily". And lastly, do not attempt to repair a defective tool; instead have it repaired by a qualified person.

Before using a powered hand tools, ensure that you have been properly trained to use the tool safely. Read the operator's manual before using the tool. Ensure that the power tool has the correct guard, shield or other attachment that the manufacturer recommends. Ensure that the tools are properly grounded using a three-prong plug and are double-insulated (labeled as such) to prevent electric shocks. Check electric tools to ensure that a tool with a 3-prong plug has an approved 3-wire cord and is grounded. Never remove the third, grounding prong from a plug. Replace open front plugs with dead front plugs. Dead front plugs are sealed and present less danger of shock or short circuit. Use only the kind of battery that the tool manufacturer specifies for the battery-powered tool that you are using. Recharge a battery-powered tool only with a charger that is specifically intended for the battery in that tool.

While using a powered hand tools, wear or use personal protective equipment (PPE) or clothing that is appropriate for the work you are doing (safety glasses or goggles, hearing protection, dust mask, gloves, safety boots or shoes, or rubber boots).  Switch off the tools before connecting them to a power supply. If a power cord feels more than comfortably warm or if a tool is sparking excessively, have it checked by an electrician or other qualified person.  Disconnect the power supply before making adjustments or changing accessories. Remove any wrenches and adjusting tools before turning on a tool. Eliminate octopus connections: if more than one receptacle plug is needed, use a power bar or power distribution strip that has an integral power cord and a built-in over current protection. Pull the plug, not the cord when unplugging a tool. Keep power cords away from heat, water, oil, sharp edges and moving parts. Ensure that cutting tools, drill bits, etc. is kept sharp, clean and well maintained. Store tools in a dry, secure location when they are not being used.

Tools and equipment must be in good condition to prevent injuries.  Items found damaged or defective must be taken out of service immediately.

And lastly, any tools or equipment exceeding eight (8) feet in length requires at least two (2) people for material handling activities.  Tools or equipment exceeding eight (8) feet in length should not be transported through areas of high risk, which are restricted in nature such as narrow hallways.