Injury Illness Prevention Plan - Flipbook - Page 99
Health and Safety Program Manual
Teamwrkx
Construction, Inc.
Issue Date: 10/16/23
Revision Date: 10/16/23
Tool Safety and Inspection
Reference: A-2
When using pneumatic tools, workers are to check to see that they are fastened securely to the hose to prevent
them from becoming disconnected. A short wire or positive locking device attaching the air hose to the tool will
serve as an added safeguard.
A safety clip or retainer must be installed to prevent attachments, such as chisels on a chipping hammer, from
being unintentionally shot from the barrel.
Screens must be set up to protect nearby workers from being struck by flying fragments around chippers,
riveting guns, staplers, or air drills.
Compressed air guns should never be pointed toward anyone. Users should never "dead-end" it against
themselves or anyone else.
Powder-Actuated Tools
Powder-actuated tools operate like a loaded gun and should be treated with the same respect and precautions.
In fact, they are so dangerous that they must be operated only by specially trained workers.
Powder-Actuated Tool Safety
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These tools should not be used in an explosive or flammable atmosphere.
Before using the tool, the worker should inspect it to determine that it is clean, that all moving
parts operate freely, and that the barrel is free from obstructions.
The tool should never be pointed at anybody.
The tool should not be loaded unless it is to be used immediately. A loaded tool should not be
left unattended, especially where it would be available to unauthorized persons.
Hands should be kept clear of the barrel end. To prevent the tool from firing accidentally, two
separate motions are required for firing: one to bring the tool into position, and another to pull
the trigger. The tools must not be able to operate until they are pressed against the work surface
with a force of at least five pounds greater than the total weight of the tool.
If a powder-actuated tool misfires, the worker should wait at least 30 seconds, then try firing it again. If it still
will not fire, the user should wait another 30 seconds so that the faulty cartridge is less likely to explode, than
carefully remove the load. The bad cartridge should be put in water.
Suitable eye and face protection are essential when using a powder-actuated tool.
The muzzle end of the tool must have a protective shield or guard centered perpendicularly on the barrel to
confine any flying fragments or particles that might otherwise create a hazard when the tool is fired. The tool
must be designed so that it will not fire unless it has this kind of safety device.
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