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Thursday, March 18, 2010
Safety office offers advice for power tool users
Tomorrow marks the first day of spring. It’s almost time to roll up your sleeves and start the home improvement projects you’ve put off all winter.
Whether it’s building a new deck, repairing a shed, or remodeling your bathroom, it is important to know the correct way to operate and handle power tools that will assist in completing your projects.
Power tool mishaps usually occur due to negligence, boredom, and overconfidence. By keeping the following six safety tips in mind, it is possible to stay safe while operating power tools during home improvement projects.
Wear personal protective equipment. Safety glasses will prevent dust, debris, wood shavings, shards of fiberglass, and other airborne debris from getting into the eyes. Power tools can generate a lot of noise, which may sound louder in the cloistered environment of a workspace. In order to minimize damage to the ears, always wear the proper hearing protection.
Know the right tools for the job. It is important to know the right tools for the job in order to avoid injury to oneself and damage to the materials. Thoroughly read the instruction manual provided with each piece of equipment and become familiar with the recommended safety precautions.
Know the correct method of using tools. Do not carry tools by their cords; disconnect tools that are not in use; and keep fingers away from the on⁄off switch when tools are connected to a power source until you’re ready to use them.
Dress appropriately for the job. Wear clothing that covers the entire body; work gloves to prevent sharp implements and splinters from hurting the hands; masks to prevent inhalation of harmful particles of the material worked upon; and steel-toed work boots and hard hats for extra protection. Do not wear loose clothing and always tie back long hair.
Inspect tools. Check power tools periodically for exposed wiring, damaged plugs, and loose plug pins. Use electrical tape to cover nicked cords; however, if a cut appears to be deep, replace the entire cord. Check and repair tools that sound and feel different from the first time they were used.
Maintain a clean workshop. Maintain a clean workspace as accumulated dust particles in the air can ignite with a spark. Keep flammable liquids covered and away from the area where power tools are used. (U.S. Army Garrison-Walter Reed Installa-tion Safety Office)
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