TOOLBOXTALK
SAFETY MEASURES TO ENSURE PROPER USE AND
POWER TOOLS AVOID SERIOUS INJURIES
Power tools include electric, fuel powered, hydraulic, • Do use tools with correct guard, shield, or attachment
pneumatic, and powder actuated tools. Always follow recommended by the manufacturer.
manufacturer’s instructions on proper use, safety
precautions, inspection, and troubleshooting procedures. • Do make sure to use the proper tool for the job..
Maintain power tools in a safe condition.
PROPER USE
• Never carry a tool by its cord or lower a tool by its cord.
• Never yank the cord to disconnect it from the outlet.
• Only trained employees are allowed to operate power
tools.
• Employees must wear the appropriate personal protective
equipment to protect them from particular hazards
arising from the use of hand and power tools. For
example, employees using these tools may be exposed
to falling or flying abrasives (mortar, sand, metal),
splashing objects (coatings, paints) or exposed to harmful
dusts (grinding mortar joints, flat work prep), fumes,
mists, vapors (coatings), or gases. Respirators, hearing
protection, or gloves may be needed depending on the
tools being used and elements being worked on.
• All power tools should have the cords wrapped up tightly
when in storage and not hanging loosely.
• Safety glasses must be worn at all times when operating
any type of power tool. No exceptions.
• Store electrical tools in a dry place. If they do get wet, let
them dry out for a full 24 hours and then inspect them
again to see if the moisture has evaporated before using.
• Remove all damaged portable electric tools from use and
tag them “Do Not Use.”
EYE PROTECTION
• Proper guards are in place and not altered.
POWER TOOLS
+ GUARDING
DO
• Do ensure cords from electrical tools do not present a + GROUNDING
tripping hazard.
• Do inspect and test all power tools daily before use and
correct all defects as soon as possible.
= A JOB SAFELY DONE
• Do protect cords from doors closing on them and
pinching the insulation.
• Do disconnect tools when not to use, before servicing,
and when changing blades, guards, or bits.
A RESOURCE FROM THE SEALANT, WATERPROOFING & RESTORATION INSTITUTE
DON’T • Do not override, damage, or disable operating switches or
• Do not load tools, such as nails or staples in guns, until safety devices.
immediately before use.
• Do not lower or hoist tools using hoses or electrical
• Do not leave tools unattended in a place where they cords.
would be available to unauthorized persons.
• Do not use defective equipment until properly repaired.
• Do not use tools in explosive or flammable environments.
REVIEW QUESTIONS
1) 1) Some employees do not need power tool training .
a) True
b) False: Only trained employees are allowed to operate power tools.
2) It is the user’s responsibility to inspect the work environment prior to operating any power tool to identify any
hazards..
a) True
b) False
3) Which one of the following is something you should NEVER do:
a) Carry a tool by its handle
b) Store a tool in its assigned box
c) Carry a tool by its power cord
d) Clearly mark tools that are inoperable
4) Which of the following is a proper safety measure when using a power tool:
a) Using guards and shields on all tools
b) Always wear safety glasses
c) Wear hearing protection
d) All of the above
Talk Given By:_____________________________ Date:____________________________________
Company:________________________________ Location:_________________________________
Printed Name Signature
Through the OSHA and SWR Institute Alliance, the SWR Institute developed this toolbox talk for informational purposes only.
It does not necessarily reflect the official views of OSHA or the U.S. Department of Labor.
TOOLBOXTALK: POWER TOOLS