When we walk about hand tools, we are referring to any non-powered handheld tool from a wrench, to a screwdriver, to a hammer, and everything in between. Handheld power tools, on the other hand, refer to any handheld tool that is powered by electricity, compressed air, etc. In this Safety Talk, we will discuss some general precautions and safe work practices associated with hand tools.
Before using any hand tool, it is a good practice to inspect it – checking to ensure that it is in good condition and durable. Your inspection of the tool does not need to be time-consuming, but you should know what to look for. Tools with any of the following conditions should not be used and should be reported as damaged to your supervisor and removed from service.
- Cracked, splintered, or loose handles
- Cracked blades
- Dull, rounded, or chipped cutting surfaces
- Mushroomed striking surfaces
- Wrench jaws sprung to the point that slippage occurs
- Damage to gripping surfaces.
Once you determine that the tool is in good condition, its time to ensure that you are wearing the right personal protective equipment (PPE) for the task to protect you against hazards you may encounter while using that tool. For example, eye protection should be worn when using hammers, mallets, chisels, punches, or bolt cutters to protect your eyes from chips, sparks, or debris that could get into your eyes. Hand protection should be worn whenever using a utility knife or other handheld cutting tool, and whenever using a tool to perform work on any material that has sharp edges, such as sheet metal. Additionally, foot protection is likely warranted when using heavy tools like sledgehammers.
Lastly, adhere to the following safe work practices when using hand tools.
- Maintain your tools, e.g., sharpen, oil, and store them properly
- Use the right tool for the job
- Use the tool the way it is designed to be used
- Direct tools, such as saw blades, knives, or other tools, away from yourself and coworkers
- Use only spark-resistant tools if working in an area with a potentially flammable atmosphere
- Keep the hand tool grip area clean and dry to prevent it from slipping from your hands.
DISCUSS WITH YOUR CREW
What hand tools do we have that are damaged or worn to the point that they may be unsafe to use?
What are some examples of using a hand tool other than for the purpose that it was designed?
Are you ever presented with the situation of using a tool in a way other than the way it was intended to be used because we do not have the right tool for the job?