Power tools are must-haves for professionals and those who do DIY home improvement jobs. They are preferred because they help users save time and also make work easier. However, they must be handled with care, otherwise they may cause injury. Mishaps often occur due to neglect, boredom, and overconfidence. Taking into account the following 10 safety aspects, it is possible to work satisfactorily and safely with power tools.
1. Safety glasses – keep dust, debris, wood shavings, fiberglass shards, etc. out of the eyes. Safety glasses are one of the most basic pieces of safety equipment to wear when working with power tools.
2. Ear Protection: Power tools can generate a lot of noise, which can be louder in the cloistered environment of a shop; To minimize damage to ears, it is advisable to use earplugs.
3. Know the Right Tools for the Job: Knowing the right tools for the job is important to avoid personal injury and property damage. To do this, it is recommended to carefully read the instruction manuals that come with the equipment and familiarize yourself with the recommended safety precautions.
4. Correct method of using tools: Tools should not be carried by their ropes; tools not in use should be unplugged; and when handling a tool connected to a power source, fingers should be kept clear of the on/off switch.
5. Appropriate clothing: Long hair should be tied back and baggy clothing should be avoided. Ideally, full body clothing and heavy gloves should be worn to prevent sharp implements and splinters from injuring your hands. Masks prevent the inhalation of harmful minute particles from the material being worked on. Steel toed work boots and hard hats may also be worn.
6. Inspection of tools: Power tools should not be used in humid environments and should never be submerged in water; They should be checked periodically for exposed wires, damaged plugs, and loose pins. Jagged cables can be taped, but if a cut appears to be deep, the cable 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 must be maintained because dust particles accumulated in the air can ignite with a spark. Of course, flammable liquids must be kept covered and away from where power tools are used. A clear work area also makes it easy to maneuver the power tool; Often the distractions caused by a tangled cord can lead to an accident.
8. Beware of Specialty Tools: Miter saws and table saws should be used with a quick release clamp and wood pusher, respectively. Special care should be taken when using nail guns and power belt sanders.
9. Keep tools in their 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 adequate lighting when working with power tools, especially when working in basements and garages where the lighting may not be satisfactory.
