Hand and Power Tool Safety - gwlsc-hr.com Plans/Hand and Power Tool... · lesson plan prepared that you can implement comfortably. ... This guide reviews hand and power tool safety

F A C I L I T A T O R ’ S G U I D E

Hand &Power Tool

Safety

Facilitator’s Guidelinesa Overview

b Getting Started

d Presentation Guidelines

f Lesson Plan

h Frequently Asked Questions

1 Introduction

2 Preparing To Work

4 Choosing The Right Tool

7 Using Tools Safely

14 Summary

15 Quiz

18 Quiz Answers

What’s Inside

© 2005 Summit Training Source® Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any formor by any means without written permission from Summit Training Source® Inc. If you wish to purchaseadditional copies, please call our office at 1-800-842-0466.

© Summit Training Source, Inc. a

Everyday, tools help us build and

repair a variety of things. Some

tools are more powerful and

dangerous than others, but any

tool can cause you harm if not

used properly. Unfortunately,

potential hazards are often for-

gotten or disregarded making

work environments where hand

and power tools are used unsafe for employees and bystanders. But by

learning how to handle tools correctly, and wearing the correct personal

protective equipment, you can help ensure a safe work environment for

everyone.

Overview

© Summit Training Source, Inc.b

Getting Started

Training Materials

Collect all of the necessary materials and supplies before trainingbegins. Here are some suggested materials and supplies:

• A training location that is free of distractions, has good lighting,and a comfortable temperature.

• Desks and chairs arranged so that everyone will be able to seethe viewing screen, the facilitator, and each other.

• The video, a VCR, and a TV with a remote. Make sure the videois rewound.

• An employee handbook and pen/pencil for each trainee. Eachhandbook includes a quiz at the back, which can be used to testcomprehension and document training.

• Other supplies and equipment you may need - blackboard chalk,paper, handouts, transparencies, overhead projector, markers,notepads, etc.

• Additional information, such as a copy of the regulation orother reference tools.

© Summit Training Source, Inc. c

Preparation

A successful presentation requires preparation and planning. Giveyourself several days before the training session to get organized.

• Locate and schedule the training site as soon as possible.

• Notify trainees of the training date and time, the trainingschedule, and proper dress.

• Obtain all necessary equipment and supplies.

• Make sure you know how to operate the TV, VCR, and otherequipment. Check to ensure that all equipment is workingproperly. Replace or repair any damaged equipment.

• Review all training materials, including the Facilitator’s Guide,handouts, and any other reference materials.

• Prepare your presentation, including a lesson plan or outline ofthe training. Include the training goals and objectives. Somepresentation guidelines are included on the next page. Asample lesson plan has been included on page “f” of thisFacilitator’s Guide.

• A day or so before conducting the training session, you maywant to have participants take the quiz as a pre-test. The resultsof this test can help you determine weak areas to focus onduring the training session.

• Preview the videotape. Note any key points you want toexpand upon in your training.

© Summit Training Source, Inc.d

Presentation Guidelines

How you present the training course can have a great impact onlearning. By following these simple presentation guidelinesand keeping your objectives in mind, you can effectively andefficiently get the most out of your training session.

Organize Training Time Efficiently

In today’s busy work climate it can be difficult to find the timeneeded for training, so it is important to be organized and well-prepared when you schedule training sessions. Whether you useSummit’s suggested lesson plan or not, it is important to have alesson plan prepared that you can implement comfortably. Thisensures that time spent in training is productive and beneficial foreveryone.

Stress the Purpose and Goals of Training

Training needs to be goal-oriented. State the purpose of trainingin a clear, specific manner - whether it’s to reduce injuries, increaseproduction, improve quality, improve working conditions, etc.Review the goals and objectives of the training so trainees knowwhat is expected of them.

Capture Their Attention

Training needs to be interesting and compelling to hold trainees’attention. To help motivate learners, give them specific evidencethat their effort makes a difference and provide feedback on theirprogress. Also, remember that the first experience with a newsubject usually forms a lasting impression on the learner. Bymaking that experience a positive one, you can help ensure youraudience retains the information learned.

© Summit Training Source, Inc. e

Make New Learning Experiences Pleasant

For some adults, past experiences with education were unpleasantand not helpful. Adults learn best when they feel comfortable.By making the learning environment open and friendly, you canhelp adults feel secure in their new learning experience. Offersupport and feedback as often as possible, and be ready to pro-vide extra attention to those who may require it.

Ask If There are any Questions

When most adults learn new information that conflicts with whatthey already know, they are less likely to integrate those newideas. It is very important to make sure participants fully under-stand the training and do not have any unresolved questions.Provide for a question and answer period so participants canresolve those questions and/or answer questions throughout thetraining session.

© Summit Training Source, Inc.f

Lesson Plan

As a qualified trainer, your job is to effectively communicate agreat deal of information in a well-organized manner. Bypreparing a lesson plan, you can ensure that each minute of thetraining session is productive. Summit has provided a suggestedlesson plan for your use.

1. Program Objective

This guide reviews hand and power tool safety. In it, we willcover:

• Preparing to work

• Choosing the right tool

• Using tools safely

2. Show the Video: ”Hand and Power Tool Safety”

3. Discussion and Demonstration

To help relate the training to your site, you may wish to incorporateyour own discussion topics and exercises. Key issues you mightconsider include:

• Where can I find the manufacturer’s instructions for the tools Iuse at the work site?

• What are the procedures to be followed if a tool is damaged orfound defective?

• What procedures are to be followed in the event of an injury?

© Summit Training Source, Inc. g

5. Questions and Answers

Provide for a Q&A session to answer any questions. It may benecessary to review some of the material when providinganswers. The employee handbook, equipment manuals, andother reference tools may be helpful.

4. Use Handbooks to Reinforce Training

The handbooks increase comprehension and reinforce theinformation learned in the video program by explaining the mainpoints and expanding on the original material. For increasedemployee information retention, go over one section at a timeand stop to answer questions. The quiz at the back of theFacilitator’s Guide is provided to document employee training.Answers to the quiz are provided on a separate page.

© Summit Training Source, Inc.h

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of precautions can I take to ensure my safety whenusing hand and power tools?Make sure the area you will be working in is well-lit and the area is freeof clutter and debris. When using hand and power tools be sure to dressappropriately and wear the appropriate PPE for the tool and task youwill be performing. Before using the tool, inspect it for any damage ordefects. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for details on how touse the tool properly. Choose the right tool for the task and don’t try toget by with the wrong tool just because it’s handy. When using powertools, make sure guards are in place and that a GFCI is used for damp orwet areas. Clean the tools after the job is complete and store themappropriately. By following these guidelines you can help reduce therisk of injury when working with hand and power tools.

On a daily basis I use a box cutter. What safety precautionsshould I be aware of to ensure my safety? As with any bladed tool, be sure the blade is sharp before using it. Youcan check the sharpness of the blade by testing it on a piece of scrapmaterial. When using a box cutter or knife try to make your cut awayfrom the body in case the blade should slip. Also, try to secure smallpieces that need to be cut to ensure they will not slide as you are cutting.When you are finished with your cut, be sure to retract the blade. Thiswill prevent injuries when carrying the tool or when someone else goesto retrieve the tool.

© Summit Training Source, Inc. 1

The pyramids of Egypt. One of the

seven wonders of the Ancient World.

Built by skilled craftsmen using bronze

and stone tools that we easily recognize

as the forerunners of the hand and

power tools used today.

From these early times, tools have evolved continuously… becominglighter, faster and safer… allowing us to build our modern, high-per-formance world.

In this handbook we will discuss:• Preparing to work• Choosing the right tool• Using tools safely

Because tools are such a routine part of our everyday lives, it’s easy to for-get how dangerous they can be. Electric and pneumatic power tools canmake performing a task easier and more efficient, while minimizing wearand stress on the body. But the same thing that makes power tools so use-ful – their motor-driven energy and speed -- can also create potential haz-ards for you. While injuries from manually powered hand tools are oftenless serious than injuries from power tools, hand tool injuries occur morefrequently and include eye loss, fractures, punctures, cuts and bruises.Most hand and power tool hazards can be traced to either using a toolimproperly or poor maintenance. But by remembering the risks and fol-lowing basic safety procedures while in the shop or out on the job, acci-dents can be avoided.

Introduction

© Summit Training Source, Inc.2

Make sure the lighting in the areawhere you’ll be working is ade-quate. Cluttered work areas inviteaccidents -- tools left on the floorcan become trip hazards, whiletools scattered on a bench or ledgecan fall off and injure someone.Store tools in a dry, secure loca-tion when not in use. To preventaccidental slips, keep floors asclean and dry as possible.

When working with hand andpower tools dress appropriately.

Before using power tools, tie backhair that is shoulder length orlonger and avoid wearing jewelryor loose clothing that can catch inrotating parts.

The personal protective equipmentyou’ll need to wear depends on thetype of tools you will be workingwith. Each hand or power tool youuse may require specific personalprotective equipment that youshould be aware of. For example,cutting, grinding, chipping andsanding are a few of the tasks thatcan produce flying objects or dust,and safety glasses with side shieldsor safety goggles are a must. If anactivity generates fine or toxicdusts, check your company’s writ-ten Respiratory ProtectionProgram to determine the respira-tor or dust mask you will need towear.

Preparing To Work

The first step in working safely with hand and

power tools is to maintain a safe work environ-

ment.


When using power tools, hearingprotection such as earplugs or ear-muffs must be worn if noise levelsreach 85 decibels or more, aver-aged over an 8-hour time period.In most situations, work shoes orboots with sturdy leather uppersand non-skid soles are appropriate.Choosing footwear with a rein-forced toe provides additional pro-tection against dropped equip-ment, while a non-conductive soleprovides additional protectionagainst hazardous electricity.

Wearing the appropriate gloves canprotect from splinters and minorcuts, and reduce the impact ofvibration. But, when working with

some power tools such as drills orsaws, gloves themselves canbecome a hazard and should not beworn. If you have any questionsabout the type of personal protec-tive equipment you’ll need for thetools you use, ask your supervisor.


When selecting blades, bits, cut-ters, grinding wheels or otherattachments for power tools, themanufacturer’s recommendationsprovide the best guide.

Remember that each tool isdesigned to do only certain jobs.For example, never substitute ascrewdriver for another type oftool, just because the screwdriveris handy. Using a screwdriver as achisel or pry bar can easily cause it

to break or chip, exposing you or anearby coworker to injury.

Pliers are a versatile tool, but donot use them in place of a wrench -- plier jaws are flexible and non-locking, making it difficult to turntight nuts and bolts without slip-ping. Choosing the right tool foreach task isn’t just a smart safetydecision – it is another way ofimproving productivity while turn-ing out higher quality work.

Before using any tool inspect itscondition to make sure it can func-tion safely. If the handle on a toolsuch as a hammer or an axe isloose, splintered or cracked, thehead of the tool may fly off andstrike you or a coworker. Insteadof taping the handle or attemptingto “get by” – have the handlereplaced before using the tool.

Choosing The Right Tool

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions

for the proper use and maintenance of hand

and power tools.


Discard wrenches that havecracked, sprung or worn jaws –they can easily slip and cause aninjury. With repeated use, impacttools such as chisels and wedgescan develop mushroomed heads –when used in that condition, theycan shatter on impact, sendingsharp fragments flying. To worksafely, recondition or replace thesetools as necessary.

Inspect the body of electric toolsfor cracks or other damage. Checkthat power cords are not frayed,and that plugs do not have loose orbroken prongs. Whether the tool’spower switch can be locked in the“on” position, or automaticallyshuts power off when the trigger isreleased, the switch should oper-ate freely without sticking.

Replace drill or router bits that aredull or bent, and saw blades withteeth that are dull, chipped ormissing. Before mounting an abra-sive wheel test it for cracks by gen-tly tapping it with a light, non-metallic instrument. If, instead ofa clear metallic tone, it soundscracked or dead, do not use it -- thewheel could fly apart in operation.

To work safely, recondition or replace impact tools such as

chisels and wedges with mushroomed heads as necessary.

Key Point


Many power tools have safetyguards to prevent contact withpotential hazards such as rotatingparts, blades, pinch points, flyingparticles, or sparks. Before using apower tool, check that the appro-

priate guards are in place andworking properly. A circular saw,for example, has two guards. Theupper guard is fixed; the lowerguard retracts while making a cut.To protect the operator from con-tact with the moving blade, thelower guard automatically returnsto the covering position when thetool is withdrawn. Before pluggingthe saw in, always make sure thatthe lower guard works freely, andclear away any wood chips or saw-dust that could prevent the guardfrom closing.

Choosing The Right Tool continued


Using Tools Safely

Every hand and power tool has built-in design

limitations – overloading a tool by pushing it

beyond its range of safe operation can damage

the tool and cause injury. For this reason, it’s

important to operate all tools according to the manufacturer’s

instructions.

To prevent accidental start-ups, runthe extension cord to the work sitebefore connecting it to a powertool, and, before plugging in a tool,always make sure the power switchis in the “off” position. When carry-ing a plugged-in tool, remember tokeep your finger off the startswitch. To avoid creating a trip haz-ard or causing damage to electricalcords, keep them off of pathwaysor, when this is not possible, place arollover protector over the cord.

Carrying screwdrivers, chisels,punches or other sharp-edged toolsin your pocket could cause a seri-ous injury if you trip – use a tool-belt, a cart, or a toolbox instead. Aknife should be carried in a sheathor holder, placed over the hip ratherthan on the front part of the belt.

When climbing a ladder, carry yourtools on a toolbelt, or hoist the

tools to the work location using abucket or bag that’s secured to arope. This leaves both hands freeso that you can maintain threepoints of contact with the ladderfor safer climbing.

Only use tools around live electricalsystems if you are qualified to doso. Choose pliers, screwdrivers orwire cutters that have an insulatedgrip, and check that the protectivecovering is free of cracks or holes.


Using Tools Safely continued

If working around flammable gases,highly volatile liquids, or otherexplosive substances only usepower tools that have been special-ly designed to be explosion proof.Even metal hand tools can producesparks that could be an ignitionsource. Where a flammable orexplosive hazard exists, use spark-resistant hand tools made of non-ferrous materials.

When using hand or power tools,make sure your hands are free of oiland grease to prevent slipping.Before using a power saw, inspectthe material to be cut for nails, sta-ples, or other objects that couldcreate potential hazards if struck bya rotating blade. Take note of yoursurroundings before beginning any

cutting or striking activity, anddirect the tool away from aisleareas and other employees workingnearby.

When working with pneumatictools, the most common danger isgetting struck by one of the tool’sattachments or by a fastener shotfrom the tool such as a staple ornail. To prevent this, first, alwayscheck that the tool you will beusing is securely fastened to the airhose and any attachment is securedto the tool. Whether a tool containsa fastener or not, never point it atyourself or anyone else. Be awarethat many pneumatic tools have atrigger that is easily activated – tostay safe, keep your finger off thetrigger until you are ready to beginworking.


Maintain good balance while usingpower tools by distributing yourweight equally on both feet, and donot overreach. Wait for the tool toachieve operating speed beforebeginning work. Once started, keepup a steady, even pressure, butnever force the tool. Letting thetool do the work allows the bit orsaw blade to cut smoothly.

To stay safe when using knives, boxcutters or power saws, alwaysmake sure the blade you are usingis sharp. To test a tool’s sharpnessnever run your finger along theedge – test on a piece of scrap mate-rial instead. Dull tools are danger-ous because they require greatereffort and increase the chance of aslip or a kickback. When usingknives and box cutters, cut in thedirection away from your body.

While this may feel unnatural atfirst, it will prevent injuries if theblade catches or slips. When a cut-ting task is completed, retract theblade on a box cutter or utility knifeto help ensure that no one gets hurtwhile carrying the tool or retrievingit from storage.

Before using such tools as saws,screwdrivers or files, secure smallworkpieces on a flat surface or in avice. Never hold the material inyour hand while you are working onit – if the tool slips it could cause aserious cut or puncture wound.Before drilling, always clamp small-er workpieces to prevent them frommoving. An unsecured object canbecome a flying projectile if a drillcatches or binds.



Do not push tools beyond theircapacity. Never hammer on awrench, for instance, or use anextension, such as a pipe, toimprove leverage. Instead, select awrench with a longer handle anduse penetrating oil to help loosenstuck nuts and bolts. Avoid forcinga power tool by applying excessivepressure – this can overheat thetool and reduce operator control.

If at any time you experienceunusual vibration, noise, sparkingor other indications that a powertool is malfunctioning, stop workimmediately and have the toolchecked by a qualified individual.

To protect yourself and coworkersfrom electrical shock or burns, besure power tools have either athree-wire cord with a groundingprong, or are double insulated.Double insulated tools have aninternal layer of protective insula-tion completely isolating the tool’sexternal housing. To check if a tool

is double insulated, look for theUnderwriters Lab seal and a “dou-ble insulation” designation.

To further protect against electricalinjury, always unplug tools whennot in use, before servicing andcleaning, and when changing acces-sories. When unplugging a tool,grasp the plug instead of yankingthe cord.

To maintain a cord’s physicalintegrity, never carry an electrictool by its cord, and keep cordsaway from heat, oil, and sharpedges.


Remember that water is an excel-lent conductor of electricity andcan create a dangerous pathbetween you and an electric powersource – for that reason, never usea power tool while standing inwater. When working with a powertool outdoors or in a damp environ-ment, plug it into a GFCI-protectedoutlet. A GFCI, or ground fault cir-cuit interrupter, monitors imbal-ances in the flow of electricity – ifcurrent does not follow its intendedpath, the GFCI can quickly cut

power before it travels through youand causes serious shock andinjury.

Before changing pneumatic tools orattachments, or making an adjust-ment, always turn off the air pres-sure and vent the line unless thehose has a quick disconnect cou-pling that makes these precautionsunnecessary. Do not “kink” thehose to stop airflow. When a task iscompleted, wait for the tool tocome to a complete stop before set-ting it down.


If not handled carefully, com-pressed air can be extremely dan-gerous. A blast of compressed airis powerful enough to drive dirt,grease or air into the body causinginjury or death. For this reason,never point a compressed air gun atanyone or use compressed air toclean your clothing. If using com-pressed air to clean equipment,make sure the pressure is reducedto less than 30 pounds per square

inch, and use a chip guard to pro-tect against flying debris.

Pneumatic tools should only beattached to a compressed air sup-ply system – never to lines supply-ing breathing air or any type of gasas this is extremely hazardous.Before working with a pneumatictool, check couplings and fittingsand set the air pressure accordingto the manufacturer’s specifica-tions.



Housekeeping may seem like asimple or boring task, but remov-ing excess sawdust, grime, mois-ture and other debris from yourtools after each use will help keepthem working properly. To pre-vent accidents, as well as loss ordamage to your tools, when youare finished with a task have aspecific location to store eachtool. Heavy-headed tools, such as

sledgehammers, should be storedwith the heavy end down. Storecutting tools by covering orretracting blades, so that theycan’t cause injuries to someonereaching into a toolbox or drawer.To store a pneumatic hose, beginby carefully coiling it. Avoid put-ting kinks in the hose by hangingit over a broad support, instead ofa hook, nail, or angle iron.


Summary

Without hand and power tools manyof the tasks we routinely performwould be much more difficult orimpossible. When we use toolseveryday, however, it becomes alltoo easy to underestimate the haz-ards.

To minimize your risk of injury,remember these safety principlesevery time you use a hand or powertool:

• Keep all tools in good condition with regular maintenance.

• Choose the right tool for the job.• Examine each tool before use and

do not use damaged tools.• Wear the correct personal

protective equipment for the tool and environment.

• Operate tools according to the manufacturers’ instructions.

If you have any questions about thehand and power tools you use, askyour supervisor. We’ve come a longway since the first tools, and ourawareness of how to stay safe in theworkplace has also advanced. Toprevent accidents or injuries fromslowing you down, follow safe workpractices every time you pick up ahand or power tool.


Quiz

To review your knowledge of Hand and Power Tool Safety ,answer the questions below.

Your Name Date

1. What type of personal protective equipment may be required for someone working with hand and power tools? Select all that apply.

a. Safety glasses with side shieldsb. Safety gogglesc. Leather footwear with non-skid solesd. Loose clothing

2. Gloves must always be worn when using power tools such as drills or saws.

a. True b. False

3. The manufacturer’s instructions provide the best guide for the properuse and maintenance of hand and power tools and recommendationsfor attachments.

a. True b. False

4. When should a tool be inspected?a. Only when it begins to give you problems or breaksb. Before each usec. Only every 5 yearsd. Only every other year

5. What type of things should be checked when inspecting an electric tool? Select all that apply.

a. Check for frayed power cordsb. Loose plugs or broken prongsc. Check the body of the tool for cracks or other damaged. The power switch


Quiz continued

6. A power tool with a missing guard is just as safe to use as a tool that has its guard in place.

a. True b. False

7. Screwdrivers, chisels, punches, or other sharp-edged tools should always be carried in your pocket.

a. True b. False

8. What kind of tools should be used when working around flammablegases, highly volatile liquids, or other explosive substances?

a. Normal, everyday power toolsb. Explosion proof and/or spark-resistant toolsc. Metal hand toolsd. Never use any type of a tool near these types of materials

9. When working with pneumatic tools, it is fine to point the tool at yourself or someone else as long as it has a fastener.

a. True b. False

10. How should you test a tool’s sharpness?a. Run your finger along the edgeb. Ask someone else to run their finger along the edgec. Test on a piece of scrap materiald. There is no way to test this safely

11. Small work pieces should be secured before beginning work to prevent the material from slipping and injuring you.

a. True b. False

12. When working with a power tool outdoors or in a damp environment,where should the cord be plugged into?

a. A non-waterproof extension cordb. A GFCIc. A outlet without a grounding plugd. All of the above


13. If using compressed air to clean equipment, what should the pressure be set to?

a. Less than 30 pounds per square inchb. Less than 60 pounds per square inchc. More than 30 pounds per square inchd. More than 60 pounds per square inch

14. What is the proper way to care for a tool after a task is completed?Select all that apply.

a. Remove excess debris from your toolsb. Store it in a specific locationc. Hang the tool by the cordd. All of the above

15. A pneumatic hose should always be hung on a nail or hook.a. True b. False


Quiz Answers

1. a Safety glasses with side shieldsb Safety gogglesc Leather footwear with non-skid soles

2. b False

3. a True

4. b Before each use

5. a Check for frayed power cordsb Loose plugs or broken prongsc The body of the tool for cracks or other damaged The power switch

6. b False

7. b False

8. b Explosion proof and/or spark-resistant tools

9. b False

10. c Test on a piece of scrap material

11. a True

12. b a GFCI

13. a Less than 30 pounds per square inch

14. a Remove excess debris from your toolsb Store it in a specific location

15. b False

4170 Embassy Drive SEGrand Rapids, MI 49546

800-842-0466www.safetyontheweb.com

Documents

Hand and Power Tool Safety - gwlsc-hr.com Plans/Hand and Power Tool... · lesson plan prepared that you can implement comfortably. ... This guide reviews hand and power tool safety