Hand Tools - General Hand Tool Operation

Hand Tools - General Hand Tool Operation

What are some basic tips when using hand tools?

• Always provide training on how to choose the right tool for the job, how to correctly use each tool, and how to identify when tools need repair.
• Select the right tool for the job. Substitutes increase the chance of having an accident.
• Use tools designed to allow wrist to stay straight. Avoid using hand tools with your wrist bent.
• Ensure that employees are properly trained in the safe use of hand tools.
• Use good quality tools.
• Keep tools in good condition at all times.
• Inspect tools for defects before use. Replace or repair defective tools.
• Keep cutting tools sharp and cover sharp edges with suitable covering to protect the tool and to prevent injuries from unintended contact.
• Replace cracked, splintered, or broken handles on files, hammers, screwdrivers, or sledges.
• Ensure that the handles of tools like hammers and axes fit tightly into the head of the tool.
• Replace worn jaws on wrenches, pipe tools and pliers.
• Redress burred or mushroomed heads of striking tools.
• Pull on a wrench or pliers. Never push unless you hold the tool with your palm open.
• Point sharp tools (e.g., saws, chisels, knives) laying on benches away from aisles and handles should not extend over the edge of the bench top.
• Maintain tools carefully. Keep them clean and dry, and store them properly after each use.
• Carry tools in a sturdy tool box to and from the worksite.
• Wear safety glasses or goggles, or a face shield (with safety glasses or goggles) and well-fitting gloves appropriate for the hazards to which you may be exposed when doing various tasks.
• Keep the work environment clean and tidy to avoid clutter which may cause accidents.
• Use a heavy belt or apron and hang tools at your sides, not behind your back.

What should I avoid when using hand tools?

• Do not use tools for jobs they are not intended to do. For example, do not use a slot screw drivers as a chisel, pry bar, wedge or punch or wrenches as hammers.
• Do not apply excessive force or pressure on tools.
• Do not cut towards yourself when using cutting tools.
• Do not hold the stock in the palm of your hand when using a cutting tool or a screwdriver.
• Do not wear bulky gloves to operate hand tools.
• Do not throw tools. Hand them, handle first, directly to other workers.
• Do not carry tools in a way that interferes with using both hands on a ladder, while climbing on a structure, or when doing any hazardous work. If working on a ladder or scaffold, tools should be raised and lowered using a bucket and hand line.
• Do not carry a sharp tool in your pocket.