Safety Tips on Handtools

HANDTOOLS GENERAL SAFETY

What are some basic tips when using hand tools?

  • Ensure that employees are properly trained in the safe use of hand tools.
  • Always provide training on how to choose the right tool for the job, how to correctly use each tool, and how to identify when tools need repair.
  • Select the right tool for the job. Substitutes increase the chance of having an accident.
  • Use tools designed to allow wrist to stay straight. Avoid using hand tools with your wrist bent.
  • Use good quality tools.
  • Keep tools in good condition at all times.
  • Inspect tools for defects before use. Replace or repair defective tools.
  • Keep cutting tools sharp and cover sharp edges with a suitable covering to protect the tool and to prevent injuries from unintended contact.
  • Replace cracked, splintered, or broken handles on files, hammers, screwdrivers, or sledges.
  • Ensure that the handles of tools like hammers and axes fit tightly into the head of the tool.
  • Replace worn jaws on wrenches, pipe tools and pliers.
  • Redress burred or mushroomed heads of striking tools.
  • Pull on a wrench or pliers. Never push unless you hold the tool with your palm open.
  • Point sharp tools (e.g., saws, chisels, knives) laying on benches away from aisles and handles should not extend over the edge of the bench top.
  • Maintain tools carefully. Keep them clean and dry, and store them properly after each use.
  • Carry tools in a sturdy tool box to and from the worksite.

What should I avoid when using hand tools?

  • Do not use tools for jobs they are not intended to do. For example, do not use a slot screw driver as a chisel, pry bar, wedge or punch, or wrenches as hammers.
  • Do not apply excessive force or pressure on tools.
  • Do not cut towards yourself when using cutting tools.
  • Do not hold the stock in the palm of your hand when using a cutting tool or a screwdriver. Always lay it on a workbench or in a vice.
  • Do not wear bulky gloves to operate hand tools.
  • Do not throw tools. Hand them, handle first, directly to other workers.
  • Do not carry tools in a way that interferes with using both hands on a ladder, while climbing on a structure, or when doing any hazardous work. If working on a ladder or scaffold, tools should be raised and lowered using a bucket and hand line.
  • Do not carry a sharp tool in your pocket.
  • Do not use tools during electrical work unless they are designed for electrical work (e.g., properly insulated).
  • Do not leave tools lying around on elevated structures such as a platform or scaffold as they may be bumped and fall.

www.safetycentre.ng

sales@safetycentre.ng

Tel:+234 9057666623/25/26, 08099700070

Web:www.niscn.gov.ng

Tel: 08033606920

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *