HandTools three

Do you use any hand tools on the job? Sure you do, there isn't a day that goes by that you don't pick one up to help you with your work. There are numerous hand tools used in construction work; hammers, screw drivers, wrenches, side cutters, tape measures, sledge hammers, hand saws, cat's paws, chisels, punches, and pipe wrenches, just to name a few. Each tool is designed to do a specific job. It's up to you to know how to use each tool property.

Short cuts and using the wrong tool for the job will more than likely cause an accident. One of the most frequent abuses of a hand tool is the misuse of the screw driver. This hand tool is often used as a mini pry bar, a wood chisel, etc. - any number of small tasks for which it simply was not designed to be used. A puncture wound can easily occur when misusing any pointed hand tool. Always use the right tool for the job at hand.

Keep tools in good condition. Injuries occur when a tool slips or breaks, often because the tool is dull. A sharp, well- maintained tool will help you perform your job more effectively and in a shorter time. Keep all tools sharp, chisel points dressed, etc. Replace broken tools and broken or cracked handles immediately. As the worker who uses the hand tool, you should think of safety first. Check to be sure that the tool is in good shape before you use it. If you have any question about the condition of the tool, or how to use it properly, check with your supervisor.

Personal protective equipment is required if there's any danger of flying objects. Wear your safety goggles. If there is the potential of a hand injury, be sure to wear gloves. Injuries also can occur when you're carrying the tool. Never run, with any tool in your hands. Carry tools with pointed or sharp edges so that those edges are away from your body. An intelligent and safe way to transport hand tools is to wear a tool belt or carry them in a toolbox. If you need to carry tools up a ladder, place them in a bucket and haul them up - and use the same method when going down the ladder.

Construction workers are often thought to be hand tool experts, yet we continue to have accidents on the job. Concentrate on safety - work to improve your skills daily - share your knowledge with co-workers - and remember, a good sharp tool in the hands of a good sharp worker will do an outstanding job!

CHOOSE THE RIGHT TOOL FOR THE RIGHT JOB AND THEN BE SURE YOU KNOW HOW TO USE IT CORRECTLY.