5 Safety Tips When Using Power Tools

When people hear the word “power tool,” they normally associate it with machines emitting a piercing noise. But there’s more to power tools than drills or grinders. Aside from these electric tools, there are also handier ones like chisels, wrenches, hammers, pliers, and so on.

Because of their usefulness and convenience, power tools have become an essential part of everyday life. In the Philippines, various power tools can be found at home or in the workplace.

Since they’re very accessible and are virtually everywhere, people sometimes forget that they are, as the name suggests, quite powerful tools to have in your arsenal. They have the potential to lethally hurt or injure you, especially when used improperly.

To avert these dangers and to get the best out of these efficient tools, here are 5 safety tips that you should keep in mind when using them.

1. Wear personal protective equipment (PPE).

Always wear an eye protection, such as goggles or safety glasses. As for the rest of your gear, suit them according to the tools that you’ll be using.

Aside from glasses, a full-face shield can also used for further protection. It can be extremely handy in situations like cutting copper wire with pliers, hammering nails, or sawing wood—instances when debris can be ejected to the air.

To avoid cuts and scrapes, wear cut-resistant gloves. You can also  wear leather gloves to prevent skin abrasions.

Lastly, you can opt to wear safety shoes or boots. It can spare you from an injury resulting from a dropped tool. Again, match these with the activities that you’ll be doing.

2. Make sure your tools are in a good condition.

Inspect your tools before using them, making sure that they are devoid of damages, such as:

• cracks on the handle or casing,
• correctly installed auxiliary or double handles,
• worn out cords, or other issues that can affect insulation, or
• damaged switches or faulty locks.

If you do stumble upon defective tools, do not use them. Find a replacement and set the broken ones aside for repair.

It helps to perform a regular maintenance on your tools.

3. Use the appropriate tools.

Be sure to use the most fitting tool for the task at hand. Stores in the Philippines usually have several power tools—shelves and shelves to choose from, depending on what you hope to accomplish.

4. Handle them carefully.

Remember that you are dealing with tools, and always bear in mind that recklessness—such as playing around with them—can lead to accidents.

Never put sharp tools in your pocket. Always carry them in a toolbox.

As for electric power tools:

• make sure that the cords are not in a disarray, to avoid the risk of tripping.
• never handle them by the cord.
• don’t use them in a wet condition, unless it is permitted.

5. Be responsible. Look after yourself.

This should be obvious. Never leave your tools lying around when you’re not using them. For electric power tools, make sure to unplug them after use.

Lastly,  constantly keep your workplace clutter-free.

Key Takeaway

Power tools are indispensable devices to have—whether you use them for work, or whether you just want to fix and improve your home. To reap optimum results and to steer clear of dangers, it’s important to arm yourself with these safety tips.