POWER TOOL SAFETY | absolute-painting

POWER TOOL AND SAFETY

POWER TOOL USAGE

&

SAFETY

In the course of your duties as an Absolute painter you will on most jobs have to use power tools. This pamphlet highlights the correct procedures when using them. Please read and digest this information. Your knowledge will be tested by a questionnaire and practices observed with onsite visits.

How often should you inspect powered hand tools?

Inspect tools for any damage prior to each use.
Check the handle and body casing of the tool for cracks or other damage.
If the tool has auxiliary or double handles, check to see that they installed securely.
Inspect cords for defects: check the power cord for cracking, fraying, and other signs of wear or faults in the cord insulation.
Check for damaged switches and ones with faulty trigger locks.
Inspect the plug for cracks and for missing, loose or faulty prongs.

What should you do if you find a tool defective?

If a tool is defective, remove it from service, and tag it clearly "Out of service for repair", noting also the reason for it being withdrawn and the date. Report the defective tool to your supervisor as soon as possible.

Replace damaged equipment immediately - do not use defective tools "temporarily". Have tools repaired by a qualified person - do not attempt field repairs.

What should you do prior to using powered hand tools?

Ensure that you have been properly trained to use the tool safely. Read the operator's manual before using the tool and operate the tool according to the manufacturer's instructions. Use only tested and approved tools.
Ensure that the power tool has the correct guard, shield or other attachment that the manufacturer recommends.
Prevent shocks. Ensure that the tools are properly grounded using a three-prong plug, are double-insulated (and are labelled as such).
Use only the kind of battery that the tool manufacturer specifies for the battery-powered tool that you are using.
Remove the battery from the tool or ensure that the tool is switched off or locked off before changing accessories, making adjustments, or storing the tool.
Store a battery pack safely so that no metal parts, nails, screws, wrenches and so on can come in contact with the battery terminals; this could result in shorting the battery and possibly cause sparks, fires or burns.

What should you do while using powered hand tools?

Wear or use personal protective equipment (PPE) or clothing that is appropriate for the work you are doing; this may include items such as safety glasses or goggles, or a face shield (with safety glasses or goggles), hearing protection, dust mask, gloves, safety boots or shoes, or rubber boots.
Switch off the tools before connecting them to a power supply.
If a power cord feels more than comfortably warm or if a tool is sparking, have it checked by an electrician or other qualified person.
Disconnect the power supply before making adjustments or changing accessories.
Remove any wrenches and adjusting tools before turning on a tool.
Inspect the cord for fraying or damage before each use. Tag defective tools clearly with an "Out of service" tag and replace immediately with a tool in good running order.
During use, keep power cords clear of tools and the path that the tool will take.
Use only approved extension cords that have the proper wire size (gauge) for the length of cord and power requirements of the electric tool that you are using. This will prevent the cord from overheating.
Suspend power cords over aisles or work areas to eliminate stumbling or tripping hazards.
Pull the plug, not the cord when unplugging a tool. Pulling the cord causes wear and may adversely affect the wiring to the plug and cause electrical shock to the operator.
Follow good housekeeping procedures - keep the work area free of clutter and debris that could be tripping or slipping hazards.
Keep power cords away from heat, water, oil, sharp edges and moving parts. They can damage the insulation and cause a shock.
Ensure that cutting tools, drill bits, etc. are kept sharp, clean and well maintained.
Store tools in a dry, secure location when they are not being used.

Hand-held Sanders, Drills and Grinders

Hand held sanders, drills and grinders spins or oscillates a disc or wheel of bonded abrasive to sand, drill or grind many different surfaces. In this factsheet, the terms “disc” “pad” and “wheel” are used interchangeably. These relate to the moving part of the tool.

An Angle Grinder is a hand-held tool carried to the work, with the disc secured at an angle to the body of the grinder.

An Electrical Sander has a flat velcro pad that sanding discs can be attached to this moves in a circular or back and forth motion. The sander can be round, triangular, square or rectangle

Both machines have abrasive discs that may be replaced by wire brushes for cleaning, or cloth buffs for polishing.

An Electrical Drill is typically used for making holes and screwing screws, but it can be used with an abrasive wire wheel, Absolute Painting Solutions may use the abrasive wheel type attachment for rust.

The same rules apply to battery operated tools.

Hazards:

Entanglement with turning wheel or disc
Projectiles
Contact with uncontrolled grinder, Sander or drill
Electrical current, even if battery powered
Noise
Sparks & hot metal
Fumes & toxic dust
Slips, trips & falls
Accidental starting causing projectile

Angle Grinder Types of discs

Electric sander Types sanding discs

Drill Drill bits for rust etc

Overview

Every tool has rules and precautions that apply to it. In the case of power tools, many of these are the same for each tool, every time. Learn these by heart and you’ll always be off to a safe start. Never rush what you are doing. Always pay close attention. Don’t let anything distract you. Think ahead!