Write a toolbox talk on Hand tools

Source excerpt

# What are some examples of fixed-size wrenches? (cont.) ## What are the hazards of using wrenches? (cont.) - The work piece may suddenly break free, causing you to lose balance, - The wrench or work piece may break, or - Turning the handle quickly or with pressure may create stress and strains on the hand or arm. ## What are general safety tips when using wrenches? - Use the correct wrench for the job - pipe wrenches for pipes, plumbing fittings, and general-use wrenches for nuts and bolts. - Discard any damaged wrenches (e.g., open-ended wrenches with spread jaws or box wrenches with broken or damaged points). - Select the correct jaw size to avoid slippage. - Wear safety glasses or a face shield (with safety glasses or goggles) where there is a hazard of flying particles or falling debris. - Position your body in a way that will prevent you from losing balance and hurting yourself if the wrench slips or something (e.g., a bolt) suddenly breaks. - Use a box or socket wrench with a straight handle rather than an offset handle when possible. - Ensure that the jaw of an open-ended wrench is in full contact (fully seated, "flat", not tilted) with the nut or bolt before applying pressure. - When turning with an adjustable wrench, the direction of the turn should be against (towards) the permanent jaw. - Make sure that the teeth of a pipe wrench are sharp and free of oil and debris and that the pipe or fitting is clean to prevent unexpected slippage and possible injuries. - Apply a small amount of pressure to a ratchet wrench initially to ensure that the ratchet wheel (or gear) is engaged with the pawl (a catch fitting in the gear) for the direction you are applying pressure. - Support the head of the ratchet wrench when socket extensions are used. - Pull on a wrench using a slow, steady pull; do not use fast, jerky movements. - Stand aside when work is done with wrenches overhead. - Make sure adjustable wrenches do not "slide" open during use. …

Source excerpt

DEPARTMENT US VIRGIN ISLANDS 8 of LABOR VIDOSH # Hand And Portable Powered Tools # Hand and portable powered tools Subpart P ## Hazard Recognition Tools are such a common part of our lives that it is difficult to remember that they may pose hazards. All tools are manufactured with safety in mind but, tragically, a serious accident often occurs before steps are taken to search out and avoid or eliminate tool related hazards. In the process of removing or avoiding the hazards, workers must learn to recognize the hazards associated with the different types of tools and the safety precautions necessary to prevent those hazards. ## Hand Tools Hand tools are non-powered. They include anything from axes to wrenches. The greatest hazards posed by hand tools result from misuse and improper maintenance. Some Examples: - Using a screwdriver as a chisel may cause the tip of the screwdriver to break and fly, hitting the user or other employees. • If a wooden handle on a tool such as a hammer or an axe is loose, splintered, or cracked, the head of the tool may fly off and strike the user or another worker. • A wrench must not be used if its jaws are sprung, because it might slip. • Impact tools such as chisels, wedges, or drift pins are unsafe if they have mushroomed heads. The heads might shatter on impact, sending sharp fragments flying. The employer is responsible for the safe condition of tools and equipment used by employees but the employees have the responsibility for properly using and maintaining tools. Employers should caution employees that saw blades, knives, or other tools be directed away from aisle areas and other employees working in close proximity. Knives and scissors must be sharp. Dull tools can be more hazardous than sharp ones. Appropriate personal protective equipment, e.g., safety goggles, gloves, etc., should be worn due to hazards that may be encountered while using portable power tools and hand tools.

Source excerpt

# Hand Tools - Screwdrivers (cont.) ## What are some general safety tips to know when using screwdrivers? (cont.) - Do not lean or push on a screwdriver with any more force than necessary to keep contact with the screw. A screw properly piloted and fitted will draw itself into the right position when turned. Keep the shank directly over the screw being driven. - Do not hold the stock in one hand while using the screwdriver with the other. If the screwdriver slips out of the slot, you may cut your hand. - Do not hammer screws which cannot be turned. - Do not grind the tip to fit all sizes of screw heads. - Do not try to use screwdrivers on screw heads for which they are not designed (e.g., straight blade screwdrivers on Phillips, clutch head, Torx or multi-flutted spline screw heads). - Do not use defective screwdrivers (i.e., ones with rounded or damaged edges or tips; split or broken handle; or bent shaft). - Do not use a screwdriver for prying, punching, chiseling, scoring, scraping or stirring paint. - Do not use pliers on the handle of a screwdriver for extra turning power. A wrench should only be used on the square screwdriver shank designed for that purpose. - Do not expose a screwdriver blade to excessive heat. Heat can affect the temper of the metal and weaken the tool. - Do not use a screwdriver to check if an electrical circuit is live. Use a suitable meter or other circuit testing device. - Do not carry screwdrivers in your pockets. Refer to OSH Answers General Hand Tool Operation for more tips. Fact sheet confirmed current: 2023-03-28 Fact sheet last revised: 2013-10-02 ## Disclaimer Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy, currency and completeness of the information, CCOHS does not guarantee, warrant, represent or undertake that the information provided is correct, accurate or current. CCOHS is not liable for any loss, claim, or demand arising directly or indirectly from any use or reliance upon the information. Hand…

Source excerpt

CCOHS CCHST Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety Centre canadien d'hygiène et de sécurité au travail Hand Tools # Hand Tools - Hammers On this page What are some safety tips to know when using a hammer? What should I avoid doing? ## What are some safety tips to know when using a hammer? Hammers and other striking tools are widely used and often abused. Hammers are made for specific purposes in various types and sizes and with striking surfaces of varying hardness. For example, hammers are used for general carpentry, framing, nail pulling, cabinet making, assembling furniture, upholstering, finishing, riveting, bending or shaping metal, striking masonry drills and steel chisels, and so on. Hammers are designed according to the intended purpose. - Select a hammer that is comfortable for you, and that is the proper size and weight for the job. Misuse can cause the striking face to chip, possibly causing a serious injury. - Choose a hammer with a striking face diameter approximately 12 mm (0.5 inches) larger than the face of the tool being struck (e.g., chisels, punches, wedges, etc.). - Choose a hammer with a cushioned handle to protect you from vibration, impact, and squeezing pressure. - Use hammers with electrically insulated handles for work on or around exposed energized parts. Always de-energize and lock out energized equipment when possible. - Ensure that the head of the hammer is firmly attached to the handle. - Replace loose, cracked or splintered handles. - Keep the work area clear of debris. - Discard any hammer with a mushroomed or chipped face or with cracks in the claw or eye sections. - Wear safety glasses or goggles or a face shield (with safety glasses or goggles). - Strike a hammer blow squarely with the striking face parallel to the surface being struck. Always avoid glancing blows and over and under strikes. (Hammers with bevelled faces are less likely to chip or spall.) Hand Tools - Hammers CCOHS

Source excerpt

## Remember This (cont.) Construction Toolbox Talk NIOSH CPWR 【● # Eye Protection - Make sure your safety eyewear has "Z87+" marked on the frame or a lens, indicating its impact resistance. - Wear the correct eye protection for the hazard present. - If small dust particles or chemicals get in your eye, use the eyewash station. Rinse with clean water for at least 15 to 20 minutes. Do not rub your eyes. - Get medical help for cuts, punctures, and objects in your eyes such as metal slivers or wood shavings. Do not wash out your eyes or try to remove the object yourself. GET INFORMATION CDC/NIOSH INFO: 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-[redacted phone]) | TTY: 1-[redacted phone] | cdc.gov/info | cdc.gov/niosh CPWR: Contact [redacted phone] | [redacted email] | www.cpwr.com/toolbox-talks DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2022-136 | DOI: https://doi.org/10.[redacted postal code]/NIOSHPUB2022136 | August 2022

Source excerpt

# Hand Tools - Screwdrivers (cont.) ## What are some general safety tips to know when using screwdrivers? (cont.) - Use a screw-holding screwdriver (with screw-holding clips or magnetic blades) to get screws started in awkward, hard-to-reach areas. Square-tipped screwdrivers (e.g., Robertson) that hold screws with recessed square holes are also useful in such situations. - Use an offset screwdriver in close quarters where a conventional screwdriver cannot be used. - Offset Screwdriver - Use a screwdriver that incorporates the following features when continuous work is needed: - A pistol grip to provide for a straighter wrist and better leverage. - A "Yankee drill" mechanism (spiral ratchet screwdriver or push screwdriver) which rotates the blade when the tool is pushed forward. - A ratchet device to drive hard-to-move screws efficiently. - Or use a powered screwdriver. - Yankee Drill Mechanism with a Pistol Grip - File a rounded tip square making sure the edges are straight. A dull or rounded tip can slip out of the slot and cause hand injury or damage to materials. - Store screwdrivers in a rack or partitioned pouch so that the proper screwdriver can be selected quickly. What should I avoid doing? Hand Tools - Screwdrivers CCOHS

Source excerpt

# Vibration: Hand and Arm (cont.) ## Remember This (cont.) CPWR TOOLBOX RESEARCH AND TRAINING THE CENTER FOR CONSTRUCTION TALK # Vibration: # Hand and Arm - Wear gloves or use anti-vibration wraps to improve grip strength and lessen the shock of vibrating tools. * Take regular breaks when using tools that cause vibration. ©2017, CPWR-The Center for Construction Research and Training. All rights reserved. CPWR is the research and training arm of NABTU. Production of this document was supported by cooperative agreement OH 009762 from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). The contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of NIOSH. CPWR 【● THE CENTER FOR CONSTRUCTION RESEARCH AND TRAINING

Source excerpt

V Construction Eye Protection Toolbox Talk NIOSH CPWR ● Eye injuries from dust and particles, welding light, and chemicals are common on jobsites. Often these injuries occur because workers are wearing the wrong eye protection or none at all. Although some eye injuries are minor, even a simple scratch from wood, cement, or drywall dust can cause lasting pain. Metal slivers from a grinding wheel or rebounding nails from routine hammering and carpentry can puncture the eye and lead to vision loss. Welding light can cause "welders' flash" that burns eyes and surrounding tissue. Nearby workers and bystanders are also at risk. Work-related eye injuries can have life-long consequences. ## William's Story William was hand-grinding a small section of a cement floor. He had not been provided with safety glasses. William was finishing up the job when he felt a sharp pain in his right eye. - What caused this incident? - How could this have been prevented? *Have you ever suffered a work-related eye injury, or do you know someone who has? If so, what happened? ## How can we stay safe today? What will we do at the worksite to prevent eye injuries? ## Remember This • Identify eye hazards before you start work. - Always wear the correct eye protection for those hazards. • Wear safety glasses marked with "Z87+" on the frame or lenses, as an indicator of impact protection. • Use vented goggles for dust, such as cement dust, and non-vented goggles for chemicals. • Use face shields with safety glasses or goggles for protection from flying objects or chemical splashes. • When welding, use a welding helmet or goggles with the correct lens shade for the job (shade 10-14 for arc welding; 4-8 for gas welding; and 3-6 for torch brazing). Helpers and bystanders also need UV protection. • Take care of your eye protection and replace it when damaged. • Do not rub your eyes if injured by small particles such as wood, cement or drywall dust, or chemicals. Use the eyewash st…

Source excerpt

# What Are the Hazards of Hand Tools? 3 Hand tools are tools that are powered manually. Hand tools include anything from axes to wrenches. The greatest hazards posed by hand tools result from misuse and improper maintenance. Some examples include the following: • If a chisel is used as a screwdriver, the tip of the chisel may break and fly off, hitting the user or other employees. - If a wooden handle on a tool, such as a hammer or an axe, is loose, splintered, or cracked, the head of the tool may fly off and strike the user or other employees. - If the jaws of a wrench are sprung, the wrench might slip. - If impact tools such as chisels, wedges, or drift pins have mushroomed heads, the heads might shatter on impact, sending sharp fragments flying toward the user or other employees. The employer is responsible for the safe condition of tools and equipment used by employees. Employers shall not issue or permit the use of unsafe hand tools. Employees should be trained in the proper use and handling of tools and equipment. Employees, when using saw blades, knives, or other tools, should direct the tools away from aisle areas and away from other employ- ees working in close proximity. Knives and scissors must be sharp; dull tools can cause more hazards than sharp ones. Cracked saw blades must be removed from service. Wrenches must not be used when jaws are sprung to the point that slippage occurs. Impact tools such as drift pins, wedges, and chisels must be kept free of mushroomed heads. The wooden handles of tools must not be splintered. Iron or steel hand tools may produce sparks that can be an ignition source around flammable substances. Where this hazard exists, spark-resistant tools made of non-ferrous materials should be used where flammable gases, highly volatile liquids, and other explosive substances are stored or used. What Are the Hazards of Hand Tools?

Source excerpt

# SafetyWorks! Toolbox Talks # Subject: Hammers/Chisels One of the most common causes of hand injuries is from the improper use of hammers and chisels. Both are responsible for a high number of eye injuries as a result of flying nails, metal or concrete chips. ## Guide for Discussion Chisel Use • Never use a chisel with a mushroomed head. • Always wear eye protection. • Hold the chisel between the thumb and forefingers – don't make a fist around the - chisel. • Do not grip a chisel if your hands are numb. • If another worker is nearby, place yourself between the other worker and the chipping area. • Always use sharp chisels. ## Hammer Use - Use the right type of hammer for the job. • Only use hammers in good condition. • Use only hammers to drive objects. • Always grip the hammer close to the end and grip it tightly. • Wear eye protection. • Always concentrate on the striking point. • Strike blows as squarely as possible. • Be sure there is an unobstructed back swing. • Don't strike blows with the side of the hammer. - Never strike a hammer or tempered tool with another hammer. • Always keep your hammer free of grease and oil. • Never allow someone else to hold a nail or chisel while striking it. ## Additional Discussion Notes: The company policy on wearing eye protection on the job is Insert Company Policy Remember: In addition to using common sense and following the techniques we discussed earlier, wear safety glasses or goggles when chiseling around metal, concrete or shooting nails. Both will decrease the chances of receiving eye or hand injuries. NOTE: Always promote a discussion on any of the topics covered in the Tool Box Talks. Should any question arise that you cannot answer, don't hesitate to contact your Employer or SafetyWorks!. SafetyWorks! 45 State House Station Augusta, Maine [redacted postal code] Phone: (207) 623-7900 Website: www.safetyworksmaine.com

Source excerpt

# Hand Tools - General Hand Tool Operation (cont.) ## What are some basic tips when using hand tools? (cont.) - Maintain tools carefully. Keep them clean and dry, and store them properly after each use. - Carry tools in a sturdy toolbox to and from the worksite. - Wear safety glasses or goggles, or a face shield (with safety glasses or goggles) and well-fitting gloves appropriate for the hazards to which you may be exposed when doing various tasks. Keep the work environment clean and tidy to avoid clutter, which may cause incidents. - Use a heavy belt or apron and hang tools pointed down at your sides, not behind your back. - Keep the work space tidy. Store tools properly when not in use. ## What should I avoid when using hand tools? - Do not use tools for jobs they are not intended to do. For example, do not use a slot screwdriver as a chisel, pry bar, wedge or punch, or wrenches as hammers. - Do not apply excessive force or pressure on tools. - Do not cut towards yourself when using cutting tools. - Do not hold the stock in the palm of your hand when using a cutting tool or a screwdriver. Always lay it on a workbench or in a vice. - Do not wear bulky gloves to operate hand tools. - Do not throw tools. Hand them, handle first, directly to other workers. - Do not carry tools in a way that interferes with using both hands on a ladder, while climbing on a structure, or when doing any hazardous work. If working on a ladder or scaffold, tools should be raised and lowered using a bucket and hand line. - Do not carry a sharp tool in your pocket. Hand Tools - General Hand Tool Operation CCOHS

Source excerpt

CCOHS CCHST Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety Centre canadien d'hygiène et de sécurité au travail Hand Tools # Hand Tools - Screwdrivers ## On this page What are some general safety tips to know when using screwdrivers? What should I avoid doing? ## What are some general safety tips to know when using screwdrivers? Screwdrivers are made in various shapes and sizes and for many uses. Use the correct screwdriver for the job. - Always match the screwdriver to the screw head, both in terms of size and type. - Choose contoured handles that fit the shank tightly, with a flange to keep the hand from slipping off the tool. - Use a slot screwdriver with a blade tip width that is the same as the width of slotted screw head. - For cross head screws, use the correct size and type of screwdriver: a Phillips screwdriver may slip out of a screw head designed for use with the slightly, flatter-tipped Pozidriv screwdriver. - Use a vise or clamp to hold the stock if the piece is small or moves easily. - Wear safety glasses or a face shield (with safety glasses or goggles) that is appropriate for the hazards of the work you are doing. - Keep the screwdriver handle clean. A greasy handle could cause an injury or damage from unexpected slippage. - Shut off electricity before beginning work on electrical equipment (lock out, de-energize and tag out). - If work must be carried out on "live" equipment, use screwdrivers that have insulated handles designed for electrical work and a non-conducting shaft. Remember, most plastic handles are designed for grip and comfort. - Use non-magnetic tools when working near strong magnets (e.g., in some laboratories). Hand Tools - Screwdrivers CCOHS

Source excerpt

TOOLBOXTALK alliance An OSHA Cooperative Program INSTITUTE # EYE PROTECTION A BASIC UNDERSTANDING OF THE OSHA STANDARD There are 2.4 million eye injuries annually in America. With the use of eye protection, at least 90% of them could be prevented. Personal protective equipment (PPE) for the eyes and face is designed to prevent or lessen the severity of injuries to workers. ## Provisions for Eye Protection A CAUTION Eye protection required The employer shall ensure that each affected employee uses appropriate eye or face protection when exposed to eye or face hazards from flying particles, molten metal, liquid chemicals, acids or caustic liquids, chemical gases or vapors, or potentially injurious light radiation. ## Common Causes of Eye Injuries - Flying objects - Tools . Particles . Chemicals • Harmful radiation • Any combination of these or other hazards - Safety Eyewear Protection Includes: - Non-prescription and prescription safety glasses - Goggles • Face shields • Full-face respirators The safety eyewear must have "Z87+” marked on the frame and in some cases the lens. ## Potential Eye Hazard Examples - Hammering, grinding, sanding, and masonry work that may produce particles • Mineral wool or fiberglass insulation installation may lead to particle contact with the eyes • Handling liquid chemicals may lead to splashes in the eye - Wet or powdered cement in the eye can cause a chemical burn • Welding leads to exposure to arcs and flashes (intense UV radiation) for welders, helpers, and bystanders - Dusty or windy conditions can lead to particles in the eye - Eye injuries can result from simply passing through an area where work is being performed Types of Eye Protection Safety Glasses This is the most common form of protective eyewear. These look like normal glasses, except they have an industrial design and are produced from stronger materials. Designed to protect eyes against impact from small objects in accordance wi…

Source excerpt

CCOHS CCHST Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety Centre canadien d'hygiène et de sécurité au travail Hand Tools # Hand Tools - General Hand Tool Operation ## On this page What are some basic tips when using hand tools? What should I avoid when using hand tools? ## What are some basic tips when using hand tools? - Make sure that employees are properly trained in the safe use of hand tools. - Always provide training on how to choose the right tool for the job, how to correctly use each tool, and how to identify when tools need repair. Select the right tool for the job. Substitutes increase the chance of having an accident. - Use tools designed to allow the wrist to stay straight. Avoid using hand tools with your wrist bent. - Use good quality tools. - Keep tools in good condition at all times. - Inspect tools for defects before use. Replace or repair defective tools. - Keep cutting tools sharp and cover sharp edges with a suitable covering to protect the tool and to prevent injuries from unintended contact. - Replace cracked, splintered, or broken handles on files, hammers, screwdrivers, or sledges. - Make sure that the handles of tools like hammers and axes fit tightly into the head of the tool. - Replace worn jaws on wrenches, pipe tools and pliers. - Redress burred or mushroomed heads of striking tools. - Pull on a wrench or pliers. Never push unless you hold the tool with your palm open. - Point sharp tools (e.g., saws, chisels, knives) laying on benches away from aisles, and handles should not extend over the edge of the bench top. Hand Tools - General Hand Tool Operation CCOHS