Can you imagine where we could be without hand and power tools? Life would be hard and uncomfortable. They make work easier and less tiresome. Therefore, it is our responsibility to take care of them so that they can last longer. When handling these tools, you should be careful because they can cause hazards such as electrical shock, fire outbreaks, cuts and car punctures. Here are five tips that will help you work safely with hand and power tools.

1. Inspect your tools

Before using any tool, ensure you check whether it is in a good condition. Never use or issue out damaged tools. Always make sure that they are in good order even after use before storing them. Make an inspection a routine and your tools will last longer. When this is done, it will help reduce silly injuries from occurring. Another important thing to check is whether the tool has broken handles, bent rails and bits and damaged engines. Such tools should be repaired or replaced with new ones

 

2. Pick the right tool

Each tool is designed to perform a specific task. Many of us use the right tool for the wrong purpose. For example, you use a pliers to drive a nail in a piece of wood. At the end of the day, that tool will be damaged. Make sure you use the right tool for the task at hand. Also remember to use the right sized blades, bits and other equipment on your power tools.

 

3. Handle with care

Many tools are very dangerous. Do not throw a tool to any person or leave it lying on the floor. For electric power tools, ensure that the sockets are in good order before connecting them. Remember that these tools are not toys therefore you should be very careful when handling them. That is why it is recommended that you undergo training first before handling tools, so that you can have the skills and knowledge on how best you can handle them.

 

4. Unplug and disconnect

This applies to electric power tools. When left unplugged, they can cause explosions which can lead to a fire outbreak. Never leave a tool unplugged when not in use. They can even cause harm to children playing around the sockets by being electrocuted. In supermarkets, the computers used by the cashiers should be switched off and disconnected after use so that they can save on power and increase durability.

 

5. Keep your workspace clean

Always ensure that your workspace is clean. Sweep or mop the floor. Arrange the tools nicely and place them in a tool box or a tool rack. The floor should not be cluttered because such a floor can lead to accidental trips or falls that can be very dangerous. When cleaning, remove all the worn out tools from your workspace. Replace them with new ones or repair them. It is also important to clean and dry your tools before storing them.

Workers who use hand and power tools are prone to hazards such as falling, flying, being electrocuted, cuts, burns and bruise. They are also exposed to dust, fumes, vapors and gases. Therefore it is the employer’s responsibility to provide his or her workers with personal protective equipment to protect them from hazards. Training should be offered to all occurs so that tools can be handled in a proper way. Employers and employees have the responsibility to work together to maintain a safe working condition. If any hazardous situation is encountered, it should be brought to the attention of the relevant individuals immediately