Hand Tools Safety Dos and Don’ts

Hand Tools Safety Dos and Don’ts

Hand Tools Safety Dos and Don’ts

Hand Tools Safety: Hand tools become the important part of the daily task of workers, because without them no work can be done in the workplace. Hand tools such as hammer, wrenches, screwdrivers, wrenches, scissors, pliers, bradawl, axe, hand saw, files and other hand tools may appear harmless, but they can harm people when not used properly.

Most of the first aid injury cases reported in the workplace such as cuts, blunt, abrasions, amputations, pinches or caught in between, etc. are due to injuries from hand tools. Improper use of hand tools has sometimes resulted in serious finger or eye injuries and can be responsible for permanent disabilities.

A prolonged health effect (musculoskeletal disorder) can also be observed due to repetitive movement of the task using hand tools. Analysis of hand tool injuries reveals that most injuries are due to improper hand tool selection, use of damaged tools, and work pressure or rushing work.

Distraction in concentration at work is one of the reasons for injuries while using hand tools which again depends on the workplace culture, the personal factor and the job factor.

Proper training, education and awareness on the correct selection and safe use of hand tools can help prevent injuries.

Hand Tools Safety Dos and Don’ts

Here are the simple Do's and Don'ts of hand tools safety that will definitely be helpful in preventing injury. All of these safety Do's and Don'ts can be prepared as a safety poster and should be posted in the workplace to remind workers time to time.

Dos

1. Select the right tools for a specific job.
2. Train people to choose the right hand tools and to use them safely.
3. Inspect hand tools before each use and eliminate defective ones.
4. Use ergonomically safe tools, that is, tools designed to keep the wrist straight.
5. Always store hand tools in the designated location or use the toolbox.
6. Ensure good insulation of hand tools used for electrical work.
7. Ensure sharpness of cutting tools and suitable covering to prevent injuries from unintended contact.
8. Always point tools with sharp end away from body.
9. Mushroom head tools should be dressed before use.
10. Hold the nails to be hammered near the head of the nail.
11. The handle of hammers and axes should be fitted tightly into the head.
12. Obtain hand tools that meet the applicable standard.
13. Use a tools bag to carry hand tools while climbing the ladder.
14. Use the tool strap when working at heights.
15. Use non-sparking tools in the area where oil or flammable substances are handled.
16. Use appropriate PPE, including suitable hand gloves, safety glasses, hard hat and safety shoes.
17. Place the hammer parallel to the struck surface.
18. With a hardened bushing or similar object, use only soft hammers.
19. Pulling on a wrench or spanner is safer than pushing.

Don’ts

1. Don’t misuse hand tools i.e. use them for the purposes they have designed.
2. Don’t use low quality tools.
3. Don’t use faulty tools such as cracked, chipped, or broken handles on files, hammers, screwdrivers, or sledges.
4. Don’t use wrenches, pipe tools, and pliers with worn jaws.
5. Don’t apply excessive pressure or force to hand tools.
6. Never use a hammer without a good grip.
7. Don’t hold the nail with your fingers while hammering.
8. Don’t place your hand near the sharp end of the tools to avoid cuts.
9. Don’t cut towards you when using hand cutting tools.
10. Don’t use wrenches with sprung or cracked jaws.
11. Don’t use a piece of pipe or a wrench for additional leverage.
12. Don’t use a tester to test high voltage lines or equipment.
13. Don’t hold the job in your hand when using a screwdriver.
14. Don’t hold the job in the palm when using a cutting tool, it is better to rest it on a workbench or in a bench vice.
15. Never apply a hammer to the handle of the screwdriver.
16. Don’t use an oily or greasy tool.
17. Don’t use a hacksaw blade with crooked or twisted teeth.
18. Don’t pass or transport the hand tools by throwing them.
19. Don’t leave tools near the edge of an elevated work platform when working at heights.
20. Don’t carry sharp tools in your pocket.
21. Don’t forget to wear PPE.
22. Don’t remove gloves for more comfort.

Summary

Hand tools seem simple and safe, but they pose a risk of serious injury if not used correctly. Proper training and awareness of workers in the safe use of hand tools can prevent injuries. The wrong selection and use of defective or damaged tools are the main causes of injuries in the workplace.

The safe use of hand tools Do's and Don'ts should be used to educate people and can be posted in the workplace as a reminder from time to time.

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