Transcript Subpart I – Power Tools

Hand and Portable Power Tools
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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.
Tool Selection
Non-Powered
 Electric
 Air Powered
 Powder Actuated
 Gas Powered
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Safety Note: If you have to modify a
tool to make it work, you probably
don’t have the right one!
Non-Powered Hand Tools
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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.
Electric Tools
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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.
Double Insulated Tools
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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
Circular Saw Safety Tips
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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
Pneumatic Tools
(Nail Guns)
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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;
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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
Powder-Actuated Tools
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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
Gas Powered Tools
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Types include leaf blowers,
trimmers, mowers, and
chainsaws.
Follow manufacturers
recommendations for service
intervals and safe use.
Take special care during
refueling.
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Give the equipment
adequate cool down time.
Use only approved
containers for fuel storage.
Never smoke during
refueling.
Safe Work Practices Checklist
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Always follow manufacturer
recommendations regarding
maintenance and safe use.
Inspect all tools prior to the start
of work;
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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 .
Housekeeping
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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.
Housekeeping
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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.)
Housekeeping
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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.