Hand and Portable Power Tools

1. Hand and Portable Power Tools These handouts and documents with attachments are not final, complete, or definitive instruments. This information is for guidance purposes only. You should independently verify and satisfy yourself as to its accuracy. The AHBSIF does not assume any liability for damages arising from the use of this information or exhibits and attachments thereto and renders no opinion that any of the terms, conditions, and/or cited federal standards in this document and the exhibits and attachments should be explicitly followed by the fund member. Seek specific guidance from the appropriate regulator (OSHA) or professional advisor.

2. Tool Selection • Non-Powered • Electric • Air Powered • Powder Actuated • Gas Powered Safety Note: If you have to modify a tool to make it work, you probably don’t have the right one!

3. Non-Powered Hand Tools • Impact tools such as chisels, wedges, or drift pins are unsafe if they have mushroomed heads. • Wrenches with sprung jaws should be taken out of service. • Wooden handled tools should be inspected periodically to make sure they are not splintered, cracked, or loose.

4. Electric Tools • Electric tools are difficult to guard completely • They are subject to more abuse than stationary tools • Cords must be inspected regularly • These tools should be unplugged/battery removed for all maintenance procedures.

5. Double Insulated Tools • NFPA 70 permits double insulation for portable tools • Third wire grounding is not necessary for double-insulated tools • Double insulation works by isolating the tool’s internal electric components from the outer housing

6. Circular Saw Safety Tips • Set the blade’s depth to no more than 1/8” to ¼” greater than the thickness of the material • Avoid binding the blade and causing a “kickback” • Release the trigger if the saw binds or stalls • Never pull the saw out of a cut until the blade stops

7. Pneumatic Tools (Nail Guns) • Make sure the nose guard safety spring is functioning properly • Don’t hook up the power source until it is time to nail • If the tool has to be carried while under power, stay away from the trigger and never carry against the body • Safety glasses are a must! • For Framers; • Keep the off hand out of the way • Never nail beyond your reach • Keep the gun properly aligned with the work • Be aware of surroundings and fellow workers

8. Powder-Actuated Tools • Only employees who have been trained and certified in the operation of the particular tool shall be allowed to operate • Must be tested each day prior to use • If it doesn’t pass inspection, it must be removed from service • All required PPE must be worn • Unfired caps should not be left in the gun or lying around • The loaded tool should never be left unattended

9. Gas Powered Tools • Types include leaf blowers, trimmers, mowers, and chainsaws. • Follow manufacturers recommendations for service intervals and safe use. • Take special care during refueling. • Give the equipment adequate cool down time. • Use only approved containers for fuel storage. • Never smoke during refueling.

10. Safe Work Practices Checklist • Always follow manufacturer recommendations regarding maintenance and safe use. • Inspect all tools prior to the start of work; • Guards in place and working • All power cords in safe working condition • Timely replacement of blades, bits, etc. • Never bypass a safety feature. • Never modify a tool beyond its intended use. • Use all required personal protective equipment .

11. Housekeeping • Debris should be gathered and removed from site daily, weekly, as often as needed. • Plan for disposal of scrap, waste and surplus materials. • Keep the work area and all equipment tidy. • Designate areas for waste materials and provide containers. • Keep stairways, passageways, ladders, scaffold and gangways free of material, supplies and obstructions.

12. Housekeeping • Secure loose or light material that is stored on roofs or on open floors. • Keep materials at least 5 feet from openings, roof edges, excavations or trenches. • Remove or bend over nails protruding from lumber. • Keep hoses, power cords, welding leads, etc. from laying in high traffic areas. • Ensure structural openings are covered/protected adequately (e.g. sumps, shafts, floor openings, etc.)

13. Housekeeping • Do not permit rubbish to fall freely from any level of the project. • Use chutes or other approved devices to remove materials. • Do not throw tools or other materials. • Do not raise or lower any tool or equipment by its own cable or supply hose.