Injury Illness Prevention Plan - Flipbook - Page 95
Health and Safety Program Manual
Teamwrkx
Construction, Inc.
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Issue Date: 10/16/23
Revision Date: 10/16/23
Tool Safety and Inspection
Reference: A-2
Use two- or three-finger triggers for power tools; use four-finger triggers only when the tool is
balanced.
Hand Tools
Hand tools are non-powered. They include anything from axes to wrenches. The greatest hazards posed by hand
tools result from misuse and improper maintenance. Some examples:
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Using a screwdriver as a chisel may cause the tip of the screwdriver to break and fly, hitting the
user or other workers.
If a wooden handle on a tool such as a hammer or an axe is loose, splintered, or cracked, the
head of the tool may fly off and strike the user or another worker.
A wrench must not be used if its jaws are sprung, because it might slip.
Impact tools such as chisels, wedges, or drift pins are unsafe if they have mushroomed heads.
The heads might shatter on impact, sending sharp fragments flying.
Workers using hand and power tools and exposed to the hazard of falling, flying, abrasive, and splashing objects,
or exposed to harmful dust, fumes, mists vapors, or gases shall be provided with PPE necessary to protect them
from the hazard.
Appropriate personal protective equipment, e.g., safety goggles, gloves, etc., should be worn due to hazards
that may be encountered while using portable power tools and hand tools.
Floors shall be kept as clean and dry as possible to prevent accidental slips with or around dangerous hand tools.
Around flammable substances, sparks produced by iron and steel hand tools can be a dangerous ignition source.
Where this hazard exists, spark-resistant tools made from brass, plastic, aluminum, or wood will provide for
safety.
Power Tool Precautions
Power tools can be hazardous when improperly used. There are several types of power tools, based on the
power source they use: electric, pneumatic, liquid fuel, hydraulic, and powder actuated.The following general
precautions should be observed by power tool users:
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Never carry a tool by the cord or hose.
Never yank the cord or the hose to disconnect it from the receptacle.
Keep cords and hoses away from heat, oil, and sharp edges.
Disconnect tools when not in use, before servicing, and when changing accessories such as
blades, bits, and cutters.
All observers should be kept at a safe distance away from the work area.
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