10 Power Tool Safety Tips
Power tools are indispensable for professionals and those who
tackle DIY home improvement jobs. They are favored as they help
users to save time and they also make the job easier. However,
they need to be handled carefully otherwise they can lead to
injury. Mishaps usually occur due to negligence, boredom, and
overconfidence. By keeping the following 10 safety issues in
mind, it is possible to work satisfactorily and safely with
power tools.
1. Safety glasses: These prevent dust, debris, wood shavings,
shards from fiberglass, etc from getting into the eyes. Safety
glasses are one of the most basic pieces of safety equipment
that must be used when working with power tools.
2. Protection for the ears: Power tools can generate a lot of
noise, which may sound louder in the cloistered environment of a
workshop; in order to minimize damage to the ears, it is
advisable to wear earplugs.
3. Knowing the right tools for the job: It is important to know
the right tools for the job in order to avoid injury to oneself
and damage to the materials. To this end, it is advisable to
thoroughly read the instruction manuals provided with the
equipment and get familiar with the recommended safety
precautions.
4. Correct method of using tools: Tools should not be carried
by their cords; tools that are not in use should be
disconnected; and while handling a tool connected to a power
source, fingers should be kept away from the on/off switch.
5. The right clothes: Long hair should be tied and loose
clothing should be avoided. Ideally, clothing that covers the
entire body should be worn and heavy gloves should be used in
order to avoid sharp implements and splinters from hurting the
hands. Masks prevent inhalation of harmful minute particles of
the material that is being worked upon. Steel-toed work boots
and hard hats can also be worn.
6. Tool inspection: Power tools should not be employed in wet
environments and should never be dipped in water; they should be
checked periodically for exposed wiring, damaged plugs, and
loose plug pins. Nicked cords can be taped but if a cut appears
to be deep, a cord should be replaced. Tools that are damaged or
those that sound and feel different when used should be checked
and repaired.
7. Cleanliness in the work area: This should be maintained
because accumulated dust particles in the air can ignite with a
spark. Of course, flammable liquids should be kept covered and
away from the place where power tools are being used. An
uncluttered work area also makes it easy to maneuver the power
tool; often distractions caused by a tangled cord can result in
an accident.
8. Care with particular tools: Miter saws and table saws should
be used with a quick-release clamp and a wood push-through,
respectively. Extra care should be taken while using nail guns
and power belt sanders.
9. Keep tools in place: Power tools should be returned to their
cabinets after use to prevent them from being used by an
unauthorized and incapable person.
10. Lighting: It is important to use proper lighting while
working with power tools, particularly when working in the
basement and garage where lighting may not be satisfactory.