Tools are a necessary requirement on most jobs, both indoors and outdoors. Basic hand tools, if used improperly or not kept in good condition, can result in an injury. Injuries can also occur when workers fail to use the tool for its intended purpose or forget to inspect them before use. Never use a hand tool that is damaged, broken or badly corroded. Ask your supervisor if the tool can be replaced.
Extended Safety Message:
- Always inspect your hand tools before each use.
- Look for any damage such cracks in handles, sharp edges, or splintering.
- If a wooden handle on a tool, such as a hammer or an axe, is loose, splintered, or cracked, the head has the potential to fly off causing injuries.
- Make sure that tools are not covered in paint, grease, or dirt that can create a hazard or hide a serious defect.
- Wrenches that are warped, rusted, or sprung can result in breaking or slippage that can lead to serious hand injuries.
- Saws, knives, scissors, or other similar hand tools should be sharp.
- Dull tools can have the potential to be more hazardous than sharp tools.
- Always use the proper attachments, handles, and grips provided by the manufacturer.
- Always make sure your grip and your footing are secure when using hand tools.
- Consider wearing proper gloves to improve your grip on the tool.
- Never use impact tools such as chisels that have mushroomed heads which can chip and send pieces flying off as projectiles.
- Never carry sharp tools like screwdrivers or chisels in your pocket.
- Carry tools with the point side down in a tool belt or in a tool box.
- Instead of carrying tools up and down a ladder by hand, consider using a bucket or a strong bag.
- Never toss or throw any hand tool to a co-worker.
- Take precaution when working with hand tools at heights to ensure they can’t fall to the level below.
- Don’t leave any tools lying on any elevation, like scaffolding, where there is a risk to people below.
- Be sure to set up a personnel barrier if using tools in a public area.
- Clean your tools at the end of your shift to ensure they are ready for the next workday.
- Always wear the proper PPE when using hand tools to perform work.
- Always put tools away in their designated storage area when not in use.