Most electrical workers use hand and power tools every day. Unfortunately, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, hand and power tool injuries land an average of 400,000 people in the emergency room each year. However, most of these incidents can be prevented by following basic safety protocols.

It is important that employers ensure workers are properly trained in safe use of any tool they are responsible for working with. Upon completion of effective training, workers should have the ability to identify hazards related to different types of tools and the appropriate safety tactics for each.

Know the hazards

Individuals using hand and power tools encounter a range of potential hazards. These include being struck by falling, flying, abrasive and sharp objects as well as harmful liquids, dusts, fumes and gases. Electrical injuries are also common, especially when using corded tools. If you observe possible risk, mention the danger to a supervisor or the appropriate safety professional.

Hand and power tool users should also be mindful of their environment. Exercise caution when cutting into drywall and know where electrical, gas and plumbing lines run. As a recent example, an electrician doing work in a home accidentally cut through a live electrical wire with a drywall saw. Fortunately, he was OK, but the consequences could have been catastrophic.

Observe safety rules

According to OSHA, there are five basic safety rules to prevent hazards when using these tools:

• Keep all tools in good condition with regular maintenance.
• Use the right tool for the job.
• Examine each tool for damage before use. Do not use damaged tools.
• Operate tools according to the manufacturers’ instructions.
• Provide and properly use the right personal protective equipment.

Additionally, NFPA 70E, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace, lockout/tagout procedures should always be followed when working on or near electricity.

If using a corded tool, it is important to examine it to make sure the plug appears intact and that there are no kinks or exposed wire in the cord. The tool should never be carried or hung by the cord when not in use. 

OSHA indicates, “All electrical connections for these tools must be suitable for the type of tool and the working conditions (wet, dusty, flammable vapors). When a temporary power source is used for construction, a ground-fault circuit interrupter should be used.”

Workers using saws and grinders must ensure blades and wheels are affixed properly and securely. Never use dull blades because doing so can increase the risk of injury. Use of sharp blades, bits and cutters will reduce the chances of a bit breaking or a blade jamming.

Every tool should be inspected prior to use to ensure it is in good working condition. It should also be routinely cleaned to prevent dust and rust and ensure the tool lasts. Any tool worn out or not in the proper working condition should either be tagged and removed from service or thrown away.

Power tools should be run with both hands to ensure precision and minimize injuries. A clean work area will lower the likelihood of slips, trips and falls, so good housekeeping should be common practice.

All tool use should be accompanied with the appropriate PPE. Hand protection should be used when operating hand and power tools. There are many forms of PPE, depending on the type of work and tool used, including protection for the head, eyes, face, feet and respiratory system against chemical, electrical and general hazards, as well as noise and high heat.

Tools should be switched off, unplugged and stored according to manufacturer’s recommendations when not in use. 

Whether on the job or working on a DIY home project, exercise caution and use tools safely and as intended. Tools help us easily perform tasks that otherwise would be difficult or impossible. But they always have the potential to be hazardous when used or maintained improperly.

stock.adobe.com / Dejan Jovanovic