Hand and Portable Power Tool Safety

• Keep work areas clean and dry to avoid problems caused by clutter, moisture or other hazardous environments.
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions when using unfamiliar tools.
• Wear the proper clothing and protective equipment for the job.
• Avoid distractions when using any tool.
• Keep visitors at a safe distance from the work area.
• Make all workers aware of the hazards caused by faulty or improperly used hand tools.

• Provide the right tools for each job and require that they be used only for their intended purposes.
• Establish regular tool inspection procedures (including inspection of worker-owned tools), and provide good repair facilities to keep tools in a safe condition.
• Ensure that the tool can be used equally well by left- and right-handed workers.
• Provide tools that are well-balanced, fit the hand comfortably, and have handles to protect the user from heat and electrical hazards.
• Promptly replace any broken or fractured handles on hammers, axes and similar equipment.
• Keep all tools clean, well-maintained and correctly stored.
• Tag and remove damaged, defective or worn tools from service.

• Use tools only on secure and stable work surfaces. Maintain safe footing and balance at all times.
• Adjust work surfaces to minimize reaching, bending and other awkward postures.
• Use tool belts, especially when working on ladders.
• Never leave tools on ladders, scaffolds or overhead workspaces.
• Carry power tools with hands kept away from power switches.
• Plug three-prong power tools into three-hole electrical receptacles. Use ground-fault circuit interrupters with all power tools.
• Store all tools in the appropriate manufacturer-supplied cases or in toolboxes.

COPYRIGHT ©2002, ISO Services Properties, Inc.