Famous last words:
- “It’s only 110—it can’t really hurt you.”
- “Let me just stretch a little and drill this one hole.”
- “I emptied this nail gun…”
- “Let me pull this sawblade guard back just to finish this one cut.”
- Portable power tools are one of the greatest time- and energy-savers around. Since they’re so readily available and useful, we tend to forget that they’re powered, and have the potential to amputate, break bones, electrocute, and kill. Some of the serious accidents using power tools have involved situations like the following:
- “A sheet-metal man was installing flashing on a church roof. Using a power drill on the roof edge, he lost his balance when the drill cut through the material. Failing to use a safety belt, he toppled 30 feet to his death.”
- “A carpenter amputated three fingers using a portable circular saw incorrectly. He tried to adjust the blade depth with one hand, with the other on the grip handle. He accidentally hit the trigger.”
Problems:
- Inadequate instructions
- Use of improperly grounded, non-double insulated tools
- Protective guards were defective, or removed
- Dull cutting edges of blades and bits
- Hang-up of power cord twist plugs on ladder rungs
- Nonsecure operator position
Solutions:
- Proper training in power-tool use
- Preventive maintenance on power tools
- Inspections and defective tool reports
- Shorten power cord to prevent hang-ups
- If you are performing elevated work, use safety belts