You may have been lucky up until this point.
Power tools are so common, that many workers think they know just about everything there is to know about handling them properly and safely. But, if you look into the accident statistics, they reveal something quite different; power tools are often involved in some of the most serious accidents involving cuts, amputations, impaled objects and eye injures. In reality, every time you turn on a power tool, an accident is waiting to happen. You may have been lucky up until this point, but only by being smart with power tools in the future can you avoid becoming a workplace injury. Let's do a quick review of some basic power tool safety tips.
1. Don't operate a tool until you've received proper training, understand how to use it and have been approved to use it.
2. Inspect every tool before using it to discover:
- Missing parts, like safety guards
- Loose or dull blades
- Cuts in plug and cord insulation
- Defects or cracks in the tool housing
- Problems with guards and safety shut-off switches
3. Make sure you have the right tool for the job and know how the tool going to operate. Be familiar with its speed, power, depth of cut, adjustments, and any problems other workers have had with it.
 Foto: Mike Guertin
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4. What kind of personal protective equipment will you'll need? Usually a manufacturer's operating instructions will tell you what to wear. Eye and hearing protection are the most common PPE recommended. When working with tools that will generate dust, shavings, or flying particles, in addition to safety glasses or goggles, respiratory protection may also be required to protect your lungs.
5. Avoid wearing loose clothing or jewelry when you're using power tools. It's easy for these items to get caught in the equipment which could pull you into it.
6. Before turning on the power, double check the tool shut-off function, and location of the power switch. Most power tools will stop either when you release your finger from the switch or when you press the shut-off button or switch. In an emergency you will have to react quickly to shut the tool down –and knowledge of the power and lock switch locations is critical.
7. Power tools must be grounded or be built with double/dual insulation. When using electric tools always plug the tool into a GFCI protected outlet. And be sure to check the plug and cord for damage before starting any work.
8. Inspect the material and area where you will be cutting or drilling for hidden hazards such as electrical or plumbing lines, nails, steel hardware, or anything else that could cause you to lose control of the tool during operation.
9. Always keep the work area clean and organized. Avoid working around oil-soaked rags or other flammable materials. Sparks could fly and start a fire before you know what happened. It's also a good idea to always clean up the work area when you're done. Dust and debris create additional hazards and safety issues for others.
10. Watch your cords. Don't let cords dangle – they can be major tripping hazards for yourself and others. Keep cords away from traffic areas and pinch points to protect them from damage. Watch your guards and blades when cutting. Some workers have cut their own cords creating an electrocution risk during operation.
–Peter Kuchinsky is a Certified Safety Pro, and owner of CBA Construction safety Check in Vista, CA.
