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hammer drill hazards

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Published by SALUS

Toolbox Talk: Hammer Drill Safety

Date: [DATE] Duration: [DURATION] minutes Presenter: [PRESENTER NAME] Location: [LOCATION]

Objective

The objective of this toolbox talk is to educate workers on the hazards associated with using hammer drills and to provide guidelines for safe operation to prevent injuries and equipment damage.

Introduction

Hammer drills are powerful tools used for drilling into hard materials such as concrete, brick, and stone. Due to their power and the nature of the materials they are used on, hammer drills can pose several safety hazards if not used correctly. This toolbox talk will cover common hazards, control measures, and safe work procedures to ensure everyone can use hammer drills safely.

Key Points

PPE is essential: Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect against flying debris, noise, and vibration [1].
Inspect the drill: Before use, inspect the drill for any damage or defects. Ensure all parts are in good working condition [2].
Use the right drill for the job: Select the appropriate hammer drill and drill bit for the material being drilled [3].
Secure the workpiece: Ensure the material being drilled is properly secured to prevent movement during drilling [2].
Maintain a safe work area: Keep the work area clear of obstructions and ensure adequate lighting [4].

Hazard Identification

Flying debris: Hammer drilling can produce flying chips and dust, which can cause eye injuries or skin irritation [1].
Noise: Hammer drills can generate high noise levels, which can lead to hearing damage [1].
Vibration: Prolonged use of hammer drills can cause hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) [1].
Dust inhalation: Drilling into concrete and masonry can create dust containing silica, which can cause respiratory problems [5].
Electrical hazards: Damaged cords or improper grounding can lead to electric shock [3].

Presenter Note: Encourage participants to share any additional hazards they've encountered.

Control Measures

Elimination: If possible, use alternative methods that do not involve hammer drilling to reduce the risk [6].
Engineering Controls: Use dust extraction systems to minimize dust exposure. Ensure equipment is properly maintained to reduce vibration [7].
Administrative Controls: Implement a tool maintenance program. Provide training on proper hammer drill use and safety procedures. Rotate tasks to reduce exposure to vibration and noise [8].
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, and a dust mask or respirator when using a hammer drill [1].

Safe Work Procedures

Inspect the hammer drill: Check for any damage, loose parts, or frayed cords before each use [2].
Select the correct drill bit: Use the appropriate type and size of drill bit for the material being drilled [3].
Secure the workpiece: Clamp or otherwise secure the material to prevent it from moving during drilling [9].
Wear appropriate PPE: Put on safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, and a dust mask or respirator [1].
Start drilling: Position the drill bit on the marked spot and start drilling at a slow speed, gradually increasing speed as needed. Apply steady pressure, but do not force the drill [2].

Presenter Note: If possible, demonstrate the safe work procedure or use visual aids.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Requirements

Safety Glasses: Protect eyes from flying debris [1].
Gloves: Reduce vibration and improve grip [1].
Hearing Protection: Protect ears from high noise levels [1].
Dust Mask/Respirator: Prevent inhalation of dust and silica particles [1].

[Emphasize the importance of proper PPE use and maintenance]

Real-World Example or Case Study

[Provide a detailed description of a relevant real-world scenario or case study]

[Discuss what went wrong or right, and the lessons learned]

Presenter Note: Ask participants if they can relate this example to their own experiences.

Group Discussion

Discuss the following questions:

What are some common mistakes people make when using hammer drills?
How can we improve our current safety practices related to hammer drills?
What types of materials require extra caution when hammer drilling?

Presenter Note: Encourage active participation and facilitate the discussion.

Emergency Procedures

Eye Injury: Flush the eye with water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention [4].
Electric Shock: Immediately turn off the power source and seek medical attention [3].
Lacerations/Cuts: Apply pressure to the wound and seek medical attention if necessary [8].
Respiratory Issues: Move to an area with fresh air and seek medical attention if symptoms persist [5].

Questions and Answers

[Encourage participants to ask questions]

[Provide answers to common questions related to the topic]

Q: What should I do if the drill bit gets stuck?

A: Stop the drill, disconnect the power, and use pliers or a wrench to carefully remove the bit. Ensure the drill is turned off and unplugged before attempting to remove the bit.

Q: How often should I inspect my hammer drill?

A: Inspect the drill before each use for any signs of damage or wear.

Q: What is silica dust and why is it dangerous?

A: Silica dust is a fine crystalline dust produced when drilling into materials like concrete and masonry. Inhaling silica dust can cause serious respiratory diseases, including silicosis and lung cancer [5].

Summary

[Recap the main points covered in the toolbox talk]

Always wear appropriate PPE, including safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, and a dust mask [1].
Inspect the hammer drill before each use for any damage or defects [2].
Use the correct drill bit and secure the workpiece 8, 12.
Control dust exposure by using dust extraction systems and respiratory protection [5].

Action Items

[List specific actions participants should take following this toolbox talk]

Review the safe work procedures for hammer drills.
Inspect your hammer drill and PPE before the next use.
Report any damaged or defective equipment to your supervisor.

Remember: Safety First! Always follow safe work procedures and use the appropriate PPE when operating a hammer drill.

Report all hazards, near-misses, and incidents to your supervisor immediately.

Safety powered by SALUS

9 source record(s)

Sources used for this answer

[1] Rules for the Administration of the Oregon Safe Employment Act (General Occupational Safety and Health, Division 2, OSHA Oregon)

Page 1471

Open source document

Source excerpt

Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division AO 7-2008 - 1910.243(a)(2) (ii) All hand-held powered drills, tappers, fastener drivers, horizontal, vertical, and angle grinders with wheels greater than 2 inches in diameter, disc sanders with discs greater than 2 inches in diameter, belt sanders, reciprocating saws, saber, scroll, and jig saws with blade shanks greater than a nominal one-fourth inch, and other similarly operating powered tools shall be equipped with a constant pressure switch or control, and may have a lock-on control provided that turnoff can be accomplished by a single motion of the same finger or fingers that turn it on (iii) - (A) All other hand-held powered tools, such as, but not limited to, platen sanders, grinders with wheels 2 inches in diameter or less, disc sanders with discs 2 inches in diameter or less, routers, planers, laminate trimmers, nibblers, shears, saber, scroll, and jig saws with blade shanks a nominal one-fourth of an inch wide or less, may be equipped with either a positive 'on-off' control, or other controls as described by paragraph (a)(2)(i) and (ii) of this section. - (B) Saber, scroll, and jig saws with nonstandard blade holders may use blades with shanks which are nonuniform in width, provided the narrowest portion of the blade shank is an integral part in mounting the blade. - (C) Blade shank width shall be measured at the narrowest portion of the blade shank when saber, scroll, and jig saws have nonstandard blade holders. - (D) 'Nominal' in this subparagraph means +0.05 inch. - (iv) The operating control on hand-held power tools shall be so located as to minimize the possibility of its accidental operation, if such accidental operation would constitute a hazard to employees. - (v) This subparagraph does not apply to concrete vibrators, concrete breakers, powered tampers, jack hammers, rock drills, garden appliances, household and kitchen appliances, personal care appliances, medical or dental equipment, or to fixe…

[2] Kobelco SK330-10, SK250LC-10 Operation Manual

Page 64

Open source document

Source excerpt

［ ## 1. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ］ ## BEFORE HAMMERING METAL PINS, EDGES, TEETH OR BEARINGS Always wear required personal protective equipment such as safety glasses when using hammers, as metal fragments or other objects can fly and cause serious personal injury. Broken metal pieces may cause severe personal injury when hammering metal pins, teeth or bearings. To avoid injury. - · Wear protective gears such as safety glasses, gloves, hardhat, protective shoes, etc. - · Confirm the work area is clear of personnel before using hammer. - · Use a piece of wood or similar material to absorb the direct impact of the hammer when removing metal pins, edges, teeth or bearings.  ## BE AWARE OF THE HAZARDS WITH THE REFRIGERANTAND THE AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM - · Do not loosen the refrigerant circuit parts. If refrigerant gets in your eyes, it may cause loss of sight including potential blindness. - · Do not touch the refrigerant circuit parts. If refrigerant gets on your skin, it may cause frostbite. - · Do not inhale refrigerant gas; and - · Keep refrigerant gas away from heat sources. Dispose of refrigerant according to federal, state and local codes and regulations.

[3] Occupational Health and Safety Code

Page 301

Open source document

Source excerpt

- (a) the pipe is secured and prevented from falling off the trailer, - (b) workers are able to safely access the trailer, and - (c) the pipe, when hoisted, is prevented from rolling off the trailer. 765 (2) An employer must ensure that drill pipes, drill collars, tubing, casing, rods and any other tubulars are free of fluid before they are stored. 765 (3) An employer must ensure that stored drill pipes, drill collars, tubing, casing, rods and any other tubulars are secured from falling. AR 191/2021 s765;242/2022;202/2024 ## Drawworks 766 (1) An employer must ensure that the function or action of each drawworks control on a drilling rig, service rig, snubbing unit, swabbing unit or other well servicing or drilling equipment is clearly marked on or near the drawworks control. 766 (2) A worker who is operating the drawworks must ensure that all workers are positioned safely before the drawworks is put into motion. AR 191/2021 s766;242/2022;202/2024 ## Brakes 767 (1) An employer must ensure that the drawworks brakes of a drilling rig, service rig, snubbing unit, swabbing unit or other well servicing or drilling equipment are tested at the beginning of each work shift and inspected at least once every 7 days to ensure their operation does not create a hazard to workers. 767 (2) Unless drawworks have an automatic feed control, an employer must ensure that drawworks brakes are not left unattended without first being secured in the 'on' or 'engaged' position. 767 (3) An employer must ensure that, except during drilling, drawworks controls are not left unattended while the hoisting drum is in motion. AR 191/2021 s767;242/2022;202/2024 ## Weight indicators 768 An employer must ensure that hoisting equipment on a drilling rig, service rig, snubbing unit, swabbing unit or other well servicing or drilling equipment has a weight indicator that is - (a) secured against falling, and - (b) calibrated at least annually. AR 191/2021 s768;242/2022;202/2024 ## Travelli…

[4] Kobelco SK330-10, SK250LC-10 Operation Manual

Page 51

Open source document

Source excerpt

## 1.4.3 PRECAUTIONS OF WORK ## NEVER USE THE SWING POWER TO PERFORM WORK Never apply swinging force (slewing force) to rock sliding work and side wall breaking work. If the swing power is used to perform work, excessive force may be exerted on the machine and the attachment resulting in damage to the machine and the attachment and may reduce the life of the swing system.  ## NEVER USE THE TRAVEL POWER TO PERFORM WORK Do not use the travel power to perform digging or leveling work with the attachment in contact with the ground. If the travel power is used to perform work, excessive force may be exerted on the machine and the attachment resulting in damage to the machine and the attachment.  ## DO NOT PERFORM "HAMMERING" OPERATIONS WITH THE BUCKET Never use the bucket for hammering and piling. It will cause severe damage to the machine and its components.  ## DO NOT USE MACHINE WEIGHT FOR DIGGING OPERATION Do not tip or raise the machine to obtain power to dig. This could cause severe damage to the machine and its components. Before digging the hard bedrock, crack the hard bedrock into pieces by another method and hen dig it. It will not damage the machine and result in more economical way.  ［［ 1

[5] Kobelco SK235SR-2, SK235SRLC-2 Operation Manual

Page 18

Open source document

Source excerpt

## ［ 1. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ］ ## 1.2 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ## AVOID INJURY OR DEATH The proper and safe lubrication and maintenance for this machine, recommended by manufacturer, is outlined in this operator's manual for this machine. Improper performance of lubrication or maintenance procedures are dangerous and could result in injury or death. Read and understand this operator's manual before performing any lubrication or maintenance. The serviceman or mechanic may be unfamiliar with many of the systems on this machine. This makes it important to use caution when performing service work. Knowledge of the systems and components is important before removal or disassembly of any component. Because of the size of some of the machine components, the serviceman or mechanic should check the weights noted in this manual. Use proper lifting procedures when removing any components. The following is a list of basic precautions that must always be observed. - 1. Read and understand all Warning plates and labels on the machine before Operating, Maintaining or Repairing this machine. - 2. Always wear protective glasses and protective shoes when working around machines. In particular, wear protective glasses when using hammers, punches or drifts on any part of the machine or attachments. Use welders gloves, hood/goggles, apron and the protective clothing appropriate to the welding job being performed. Do not wear loose fitting or torn clothing. Remove all rings from fingers, loose jewelry, confine long hair and loose clothing before working on this machinery. - 3. Disconnect the battery and hang a "Do Not Operate" tag in the Operator's Compartment. Remove key from starter key switch. - 4. If possible, make all repairs with the machine parked on a level, hard surface. Block the machine so it does not roll while working on or under the machine. Hang a "Do Not Operate" tag in the Operator's Compartment. - 5. Do not work on any machine that is supported only by lift, jacks or a h…

[6] Rules for the Administration of the Oregon Safe Employment Act (Construction, Division 3, OSHA Oregon)

Page 877

Open source document

Source excerpt

Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division Oregon Administrative Rules AO 3-2019 Division 3 - (B) The casing or bracing shall extend 42 inches (1.07 m) plus or minus 3 inches (8 cm) above ground level, except that the minimum casing height may be reduced to 12 inches (0.3 m), provided that a standard railing is installed; that the ground adjacent to the top of the shaft is sloped away from the shaft collar to prevent entry of liquids; and that effective barriers are used to prevent mobile equipment operating near the shaft from jumping over the 12 inch (0.3 m) barrier. - (iii) After blasting operations in shafts, a competent person shall determine if the walls, ladders, timbers, blocking, or wedges have loosened. If so, necessary repairs shall be made before employees other than those assigned to make the repairs are allowed in or below the affected areas. - (p) Blasting. This paragraph applies in addition to the requirements for blasting and explosives operations, including handling of misfires, which are found in Subpart U of this part. - (1) Blasting wires shall be kept clear of electrical lines, pipes, rails, and other conductive material, excluding earth, to prevent explosives initiation or employee exposure to electric current. - (2) Following blasting, an employee shall not enter a work area until the air quality meets the requirements of paragraph (j) of this section. ## (q) Drilling. - (1) A competent person shall inspect all drilling and associated equipment prior to each use. Equipment defects affecting safety shall be corrected before the equipment is used. - (2) The drilling area shall be inspected for hazards before the drilling operation is started. - (3) Employees shall not be allowed on a drill mast while the drill bit is in operation or the drill machine is being moved. - (4) When a drill machine is being moved from one drilling area to another, drill steel, tools, and other equipment shall be secured and the mast shall be placed in a saf…

[7] Kobelco SK500XSLC-10, SK520XDLC-10 Operation Manual

Page 65

Open source document

Source excerpt

［ ## BEFORE HAMMERING METAL PINS, TEETH OR BEARINGS Always wear required personal protective equipment such as safety glasses when using hammers, as metal fragments or other objects can fly and cause serious personal injury. Broken metal pieces may cause severe personal injury when hammering metal pins, teeth or bearings. To avoid injury: - · Wear protective gears such as safety glasses, gloves, hardhat, protective shoes, etc. - · Confirm the work area is clear of personnel before using hammer. - · Use a piece of wood or similar material to absorb the direct impact of the hammer when removing metal pins, teeth or bearings.  ## BE AWARE OF THE HAZARDS WITH THE REFRIGERANTAND THE AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM - · Do not loosen the refrigerant circuit parts. If refrigerant gets in your eyes, it may cause loss of sight including potential blindness. Do not touch the refrigerant circuit parts. If refrigerant gets on your skin, it may cause frostbite. - · Do not inhale refrigerant gas; and - · Keep refrigerant gas away from heat sources. Dispose of refrigerant according to local codes and regulations of each country. If you need additional assistance, contact your KOBELCO authorized dealer about proper disposal of refrigerant. 1

[8] Occupational Health and Safety Code

Page 303

Open source document

Source excerpt

- (b) the rotary table is under the continuous control of a designated worker positioned at the rotary table controls, - (c) the area around the rotary table is clear of any equipment that may contact the rotating equipment, - (d) workers positioning slips or tongs remain clear of rotating equipment, - (e) all lines attached to rotary tongs are placed outside of the direct line of rotating slips, and - (f) any other hazard that may impact the health and safety of workers is controlled or eliminated. 773 (4) Prior to initiating or resuming drilling operations, an employer must ensure that all workers and equipment are positioned outside of the area marked in accordance with subsection (1)(a). AR 191/2021 s773;242/2022;202/2024 ## Rotary tong safety - 774 An employer must ensure that a rotary tong has - (a) a primary device that prevents unintended movement of the rotary tong, and - (b) a secondary device that prevents unintended movement of the rotary tong if the primary device fails. AR 191/2021 s774;242/2022;202/2024 ## Counterweights 775 An employer must ensure that a counterweight cannot come into contact with any worker. AR 191/2021 s775;242/2022;202/2024 ## Fluid pumping and piping systems 776 (1) An employer must ensure that when a positive displacement pump is used to pump incompressible fluids - (a) the positive displacement pump and its attachments have valves, pipes and fittings rated equal to or greater than the pump's maximum working pressure, - (b) the positive displacement pump is protected against freezing, - (c) except in the case of a pumping wellhead, a pressure relief device is installed on the discharge side of a positive displacement pump, - (d) a valve is not installed between the pressure relief device and the positive displacement pump, - (e) piping on the discharge side of the pressure relief device does not have a valve, - (f) if shear pins are used in a pressure relief device, they are of the design and strength specified in the …

[9] Occupational Health and Safety Code

Page 305

Open source document

Source excerpt

## Ignition hazards 777 (1) An employer must ensure that ignition sources do not create a fire or explosion hazard when fluids containing a flammable or combustible substance are circulated through equipment or piping. 777 (2) An employer must ensure that an enclosed tank is vented away from workers and ignition sources. AR 191/2021 s777;242/2022;202/2024 - 778 Repealed AR 242/2022 s176. ## Drill stem testing 779 (1) This section applies to drill stem testing operations. 779 (2) If fluids are encountered when extracting a pipe and the drill stem contents have not been pumped out and replaced with drilling fluid, an employer must ensure that mud cans and test plugs are used at every pipe connection to prevent worker exposure to harmful substances. 779 (3) An employer must ensure that - (a) testing for hydrogen sulphide and hydrocarbons is performed, and - (b) fluids containing hydrogen sulphide are displaced with drilling fluid and circulated to an enclosed tank. - 779 (4) An employer must ensure that - (a) motors and engines that are not required in the testing operation are shut off, and - (b) motor vehicles are at least 25 metres from the wellbore or a greater distance if required to prevent ignition hazards. 779 (5) If the use of lighting may create an ignition hazard when fluids are encountered at the surface, an employer must ensure that - (a) liquids are reverse circulated, or - (b) if reverse circulation is not reasonably practicable, additional drill pipe is not pulled and disconnected until lighting is not required. AR 191/2021 s779;242/2022;202/2024 ## Well swabbing 780 (1) This section applies to well swabbing operations. - 780 (2) An employer must ensure that - (a) swabbing units are secured against unintended movement, - (b) fluids are piped directly to a tank appropriate to the hazards, and - (c) the tank is located at least 50 metres from the wellbore. 780 (3) An employer must ensure that, if fluids are piped to a tank on or attached t…

Publication receipt

Publisher: SALUS
Final reviewer: Francis Langlois
Original answer: May 30, 2025

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Rosie's answer

Toolbox Talk: Hammer Drill Safety

Objective

Introduction

Key Points

Hazard Identification

Control Measures

Safe Work Procedures

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Requirements

Real-World Example or Case Study

Group Discussion

Emergency Procedures

Questions and Answers

Summary

Action Items

Sources used for this answer

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