Safety Rules When Operating Power Tools

Power tools are not something to take lightly. They can harm you and those around you in many different ways if not operated carefully and correctly. Powerful electric shock, physical injury such as severe cuts, eye damage, hearing damage, and fire are some of the common hazards associated with power tools. It is the operator’s responsibility to himself and to others around him to follow proper safety rules. Just even a little bit of carelessness can lead to disastrous situations. Below are some major safety rules to follow when operating a power tool. These, by no means, guarantee complete safety, but should be used strictly as guidelines. The operator’s manual should be read thoroughly and will have specific safety information for the specific power tool.

Keep it clean and sharp

Keeping tools clean can ensure that simple mishaps like a slip from the hand, or electrical circuit interference have little chance of occurring. Moreover, as a power tool is often a man’s best friend, it should get the respect is deserves. Keeping power tools sharp and lubricated will keep them effective and prevent the user from using extra force, which can lead to accidents.

Always use the right tool

Do not use tools that are not right for the job. power tools are not anything to experiment with and force into a job, and they are not like simple screwdrivers, trying different ones for the same screw until you get the right one. Do not use a heavy-duty tool to do the job of a light one, or vice versa. The tools could fly off your hand and anything can happen after that.

Not near flammable gases or liquids

Power tools produce sparks, and sparks can very easily create a fire. Therefore, do not operate your power tools near flammable gases or liquids unless they are designed for it.

Ground the electricity

Always make sure that the power tool is grounded when operating. With three pronged plugs, never use them with something that is two pronged to go into the outlet. Accidents do sometimes happen, and grounding the electricity not only can reduce the chances of them occurring but also the potential damage. Also, always disconnect from the outlet when you are not operating the power tool.

Be careful with the power cord

Do not hold the tool by dangling it on the cord and make sure the cord is not near sharp objects, heat, and liquids. As easy as it might be, never pull on the cord to disconnect it from the power outlet either. If the cord is cut or loose, electricity can seep out to cause major hazards.

Do not use in wet and damp conditions

Moisture is a good friend to electricity and you do not want to get them together. Therefore, do not operate the power tool in wet and damp conditions, especially in the rain unless it is specifically made for it.

Always wear protective gear

Gloves, boots, eyewear, and noise protection should always accompany you when using power tools. Also do not wear loose clothes or hanging jewelry when operating as the tools can easily latch on to them. Wearing protective headphones or ear protection can prevent you from future hearing problems if you use power tools regularly.

Keep others away

Make sure that no one is in close proximity when you are using a power tool. Not only are splinters and sparks hazardous but also an accidental slip can lead to unwanted circumstances.

Keep your balance

The power tool slipping from your hand is the biggest potential hazard, so always make sure you have the proper footing, have a good hold, and never try to overreach.

These are not the be all and end all of power tool safety but basic things to keep in mind. The most important thing is to use common sense and think about potential problems and take steps to avoid them.