Safe Work Practices f or Hand & Power Tools

I. Use and Maintenance of Tools♦ Select the correct tools for the job.♦ Do not use tools for jobs that they are not designed for.♦ Workers must be trained and provided with information on

the use of tools including- Safe work practices- Correct method - Posture

♦ Tools must be kept in good condition.♦ Inspect tools for any defect before use.♦ Handles of tools such as hammers and files should be set tight and should not be

cracked or splintered.♦ Tools such as files with pointed tangs should be provided with a suitable handle.

♦ Cutting tools such as chisels, shears and saws should be sharp.♦ Tools should be free of grease of oil except on moving parts.♦ Heads of strike tools such as chisels, punches, wedges and hammers should be flat

and not mushroomed.

♦ Defective tools should not be used as they can slip or break when force is ap-plied.

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II. Power Tools♦ User must be properly trained to use power

tools.♦ User must be familiar with the manufacturer's

operation manual.♦ User must ensure protective guards are in

place.♦ When installing or replacing accessories, ensure

to:- Isolate and disconnect the power source- Depressure pneumatic tools

♦ Moving parts must be properly lubricated, clean and free of grit.

♦ If possible, select tools that are equipped with a dead man switch.♦ For electrical tools, ensure power cords are not damaged or frayed.

III. Safe Work Practices♦ Use appropriate PPE.♦ Before starting work, assess work

area and Survey Surroundings.♦ Tools should be used in such a way

that a slip or miss will not lead to in-jury (stay out of the "line of fire").

♦ When using cutting tools, the cut should be away from the body.

♦ Do not use cheaters or improvised ex-tensions to increase leverage or pro-vide extra power.

♦ Do not modify tools, e.g.:- Shorten sledgehammer handle- Reshaping screw driver tips to fix slot

V. Difficult SituationsIn the course of work, we many encounter

difficult situations like:- Bolts & nuts being over-tightened- Seized threads- Corroded or rounded nutsPossible solutions for over tightening:- Use heavy duty combination wrench- Use striking wrench- Use impact wrench

Possible solutions for Seized Threads:- Apply penetrating oil to threads- Use striking wrench- Use impact wrench

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Broken Handle

Dead Man Switch

Possible solutions for corroded or rounded nuts:- Cut nut with a hacksaw- Use nut cracker

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