A Comprehensive Guide to Power Tool Safety
Power tools have become a part of life for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike. They are well-known for making challenging tasks much easier with their efficiency and power. Working with these tools has become so inherent that most people overlook how dangerous they can be. As the name implies, power tools are extremely powerful, and even a tiny mistake can lead to fatal accidents. Having said that, you can avoid these hazards by recognizing them and taking proper precautionary measures.
In this article, we’ll examine the common hazards associated with these tools, provide general and specific safety tips to avoid them, and much more.
Table of contents:
- A Brief Introduction to Power Tools and Their Types
- Types of Hazards Associated with Power Tools
- General Power Tool Safety Measures to Follow
- Safety Tips to Avoid Portable Power Tool Hazards
- Safety Tips for Pneumatic Power Tools
- Specific Safety Guidelines for Common Power Tools
- How to Deal with Emergencies?
A Brief Introduction to Power Tools and Their Types
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Power tools can be defined as a set of tools that work using external power sources. These sources may include electricity, batteries, etc. Compared to hand tools, they help users complete their tasks quickly and efficiently. The 3 main types of power tools are:
● Portable tools (corded and cordless)
As the name suggests, portable power tools are power tools that can be carried anywhere with you. They are the most sought-after power tools among home DIYers and people who use them daily. They are available in cordless and corded varieties.
● Pneumatic tools
These tools work with the help of compressed air. High torque and comparatively lower power shade are the main highlights of these tools.
● Stationary tools
Power tools that are constantly fixed in a place are called stationary tools. Most of these tools are larger in size and for this reason, are permanently placed in a space.
Types of Hazards Associated with Power Tools
Whether used for home decor projects or professional work, power tools are sure to make your work faster. Power tools can pose some safety risks if you mishandle them. Some of these risks may not be evident, but having a clear understanding about the power tool hazards can help you deal with them smoothly. Here are the common hazards connected with power tools.
● Electrical Hazards
Power tools that work with electric power pose significant hazards. These could range from electric shocks to serious burns. These hazards could be a result of damaged cords, short circuits, improper grounding, exposure to water, or overheating. Additionally, the exposed metal components of these tools can also lead to electric shocks if not used properly.
● Noise Hazards
Noise hazards are another safety hazard related to power tools. However, people often overlook these hazards. Power tools like saws, drills, and grinders produce loud noise while operating. Continuous exposure to these sounds can adversely affect the ears and lead to hearing complications. Most of these hearing complications happen gradually and could be irreversible.
● Fire Hazards
Fire hazards in power tools can occur for several reasons. Most of these are created by the spark generated by the tools, which involve drilling, cutting, etc. Overheating the tools, caused by prolonged use, can also ignite a fire if any flammable substance is kept nearby.
● Kickback Hazards
This type of hazard occurs when some foreign object gets caught in the blade and jerks back to the operator. Since this happens quickly, the effect it creates would be huge.
● Contact Injuries
Because of its mobility and power, power tools can easily come in contact with your body. The sharp edges and highly powerful rotations of blades can create serious injuries that could range from cuts to even amputations.
● Repetitive Strains
Repeated use of tools like pneumatic drills, hammers, etc. can cause strain injury. Continuous vibration, torque reaction, etc. are mostly the reasons for this.
● Ergonomic Hazards
Continuous usage of power tools for an extended time can lead to ergonomic hazards. It can cause difficulties such as muscle strains and other musculoskeletal damage.
● Battery Explosions
A battery explosion is another power tool hazard people overlook. Portable tools that use batteries to operate, such as power drills, saws, etc., explode or create fire hazards if not maintained well.
General Power Tool Safety Measures to Follow
Following are some general power tool safety tips that you can follow to avoid any possible accidents.
● Using Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Using PPE is one of the best safety measures to avoid power tool hazards. If you haven’t already, buy safety glasses, gloves, safety helmets, etc. as a safety measure.
● Not compromising on quality
Though budget is a concern when buying a power tool, try to invest in good-quality tools to avoid any future accidents.
● Reading instruction manuals
Almost all power tools come with instruction manuals on how to install and operate them. This is to help you avoid even a small fault in installation or operation. These manuals also describe safety measures that one must take while using the tool. Read them thoroughly before using them.
● Dressing the right way
When handling power tools, try to dress properly. Avoid loose-fitting clothes and jewelry. If you have long hair, try to keep your hair tied and opt for non-slippery boots.
● Regular inspection
Inspect your power tools regularly to identify any leaks or damages. Check the tools for loose connections, power cord damage, or any other wear or tear that can affect their safety.
● Switching off after use
Keep the power turned off every time after use. Leaving the power tools on stand-by mode may cause electrical hazards. The best way to avoid such mishaps is by unplugging the tools after use and storing them safely.
● Store the tools in a clean space
Storing the tools in a cluttered space can gradually increase the risk of accidents. Hence, keep the work area clean and store the power tools in a well-ventilated area. Make sure that the store room is child-proof.
● Seek help
If you need to become more familiar with using a tool, seek help. Call a professional to install the tool or get basic training on how to do the same.
Safety Tips to Avoid Portable Power Tool Hazards
The following safety tips can help you avoid the hazards caused by portable power tools.
● Ensure the power tools you use are equipped with a dead man switch or spring-loaded switch that will only turn on when pressed to avoid accidental locking.
● Keep the tools in a high spot to avoid accidental falls. For example, if you keep a corded drill on a table and accidentally yank the cord, it may create injuries by falling down on your foot.
● Don’t use too much force to get cutting done. Try to cut the materials at a speed that a tool can.
● Try to use double-insulated power tools or power tools with three-pointed power cords.
● Avoid using portable electric tools in wet conditions unless they have that option.
● Ensure the work area is dry and clean to avoid any slipping incidents while dealing with power tools.
● Please keep your hands away from the power switches on tools to avoid accidentally starting them.
● Inspect whether the cords of electric tools are kept near sharp edges. If yes, try to move them and keep them on a flat surface safely.
Safety Tips for Pneumatic Power Tools
Most pneumatic tool hazards are caused by tools like nail guns, and injuries could range from finger wounds to severe eye injuries. The following tips will help you improve your safety if you face any possible hazards.
● Every time you plan to use a pneumatic tool, try to inspect whether all the parts of the tool are appropriately fastened.
● Compressed air guns are never supposed to be pointed at yourself or others. Make sure you keep it away after use.
● A safety clip or retainer must be fitted to avoid the expulsion of attachments like chisels.
● Ensure the pressure is released from the air gun before breaking the connection and taking it to the storage space.
● While handling the pneumatic air tools, ensure you never leave any tools unattended.
● Always use quality attachments with good rating and safety standards for longevity.
● Test the air hoses periodically and every time before using it for any tears.
Specific Safety Guidelines for Common Power Tools
I. Electric Drill
● Limit the usage of electric drills to the places where there are no flammable substances.
● An electric drill shall not be used on wet surfaces or when it is raining.
● Try to change and use the correct drill bit based on the tasks and target materials.
● Turn the power off when fixing the drill bit and ensure you plug it in once everything is ready.
● Do not place your hands or fingers near the drill bit and rotating chuck.
● If it is battery-operated, only use the battery specified for that particular type of drill.
● Never carry a drill by holding on to its cord.
II. Jack Hammer
● Wear appropriate PPE while handling the jack hammer, especially if you’re in between some heavy work.
● Seek help for loading and unloading jackhammer as it could be heavy to work with.
● When not in use, please keep the hammer on the floor to avoid it from falling down.
● Inspect the hose couplings before use. To avoid any tripping incidents, stretch out the air hose and use it.
● Avoid using compressed air blowers to clean the workspace or clothes if there’s no proper ventilation system.
● Make sure you use the correct bit used to do a particular job.
III. Angle Grinder
● Choose the appropriate wheel that blends with a particular machine’s speed, size and the nature of work.
● Ensure that the grinder’s RPM rate is lower than that of the disc used
● Check for any cracks or worn discs. If found, replace it as early as possible.
● Every time you switch the tool on, let it warm up and come to full speed before use.
● Be careful about placing your hands near the rotating wheel.
● Wear PPE compulsorily, including eye, ear, and body protective gears while using the grinders.
IV. Table Saws
● Try to get special training from a professional before using a table saw.
● Do not forget to install blade guards for additional safety.
● Make sure that the blade has stopped spinning before starting to clean the workspace.
● When changing the blade, it is better to unplug the tool to avoid any electric hazards.
● Check for any small objects like staples, nails, etc. that could hinder the proper operation of the saw by coming in contact with the rotating blade.
How to Deal with Emergencies?
Dealing with a sudden power tool hazard can be overwhelming. For instance, consider this situation: You’re at a construction site and one of your colleague’s got a wound on his finger from a table saw. Watching all these may be disturbing for you. However, handling the situation should be the prime concern in such situations. Here are some tips that’ll help you handle such situations:
● The most critical step is to turn off the machine. This would help you stabilize the situation and move to the next steps. For example, if someone’s hand is caught in the angle grinder, switching it off may stop the wheel rotation and prevent further injuries.
● Next, give the first aid. Check whether the injury is deep or manageable by yourself. If the injury is deep clean the wound and ensure safety until the professional help arrives.
● Dial for the emergency services if necessary. Provide relevant details and take care of legal procedures if needed.
So, we’ve explained about the common power tool hazards and the safety tips. Though power tools offer high efficiency, they can also be hazardous. Understanding these hazards and the safety tips to avoid them is essential to handle any such situations in future. Remember, following these power tool safety tips will not only keep you safe but promote a safer workplace too. Hence, the next time you use a power tool, keep these tips in mind and enjoy the work!
