Safety in the workplace is a number one priority in any industrial business. You want to protect your people, your other assets, and your tools. You want quality and efficiency that’s second to none, but you are diligent that nothing comes at the sake of safety. Consider the following tips for maintaining a safe work environment regarding the use of power tools.
Power Tool Safety: The Basics
Though not the number one cause of workplace accidents and fatalities, electrical hazards are a significant and costly source of injuries and death in the workplace. They disrupt lives, impact families, and impede on job productivity. Use the following power tool safety tips to help you protect your employees from electrical hazards.
1. Conduct frequent safety trainings
Though seasoned workers usually have the knowledge and experience to practice safety when using power tools, it is good to conduct and require frequent training sessions. Bad habits can creep in over time, new tools require new training, and newer employees will not be accustomed to necessary safety precautions. Encourage your employees to remain attentive and aware of all safety precautions while using power tools.
2. Be alert and awake
Don’t use power tools if you are sick, tired, or under the influence of drugs (including medication) or alcohol. Do not let yourself get distracted. Watch what you are doing and listen for unusual sounds. Be ready to stop at any moment to prevent an accident or injury.
3. Keep power tools off when not in use
When you are finished using a tool or need to clean, adjust, or move it, turn it off before unplugging it. Likewise, when you begin using a tool, make sure it is turned off before plugging it in. This is a common cause of accidents regarding power tools. Don’t let it be.
4. Use proper extension cords
When an extension cord is needed, make sure you are using one that’s heavy duty and suitable to your location and amperage need. Make sure it is the proper length and do not use cords rated for indoors when you are outside. If your tool requires a three-prong plug, make sure you are using a three-prong cord and a three-prong outlet.
5. Examine work area and tools
Before you begin working, check cords for wear and exposed places. Examine tools and work area. Look for moisture and spills near electrical outlets and equipment. Make sure all circuits are equipped with GFCIs. Keeping your work area and tools clean and dry reduces the risk of accidental shock.
Cordless Power Tools: A Safer Option
Following proper safety guidelines when using power tools will reduce the chance for electrical hazards, but not eliminate it completely. Accidents can and may still happen. To reduce the chance even further, consider replacing your power tools with cordless industrial tools instead. This will eliminate all hazards associated with power cords and reduce the overall use of electrical circuits in the workplace. Your workforce will be safer, more efficient, and more productive over time.
Be Smart. Be Safe.
You can never be too cautious when it comes to power tool safety in the workplace. Electrical hazards cause substantial injuries and fatalities, impacting lives and productivity.
Specialty Maintenance Tools is your premier resource for industrial tools and tool safety. We provide a comprehensive education on the why and how of all our tools including tool use demonstrations. Contact Us for more information on global industrial tool distribution for hands-free tools and other power-free devices.