OSHA Hand and Power Tools, 2002 (Revised)

OSHA Hand and Power Tools, 2002 (Revised)

This booklet is designed to present to employees and employers a summary of the basic safety procedures and safeguards associated with hand and portable power tools.

Material in this booklet is based on the standards of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration; this booklet, however, should not be considered as a substitute for the full safety and health standards for general industry (published in Title 29 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Part 1910, Subpart P), or for the construction industry (published in 29 CFR Part 1926, Subpart I). These are also available on the World Wide Web at www.osha.gov.

Employers and employees in the 26 states and territories with OSHA-approved state safety and health plans should check with their state agency. Their state may be enforcing standards and other procedures that, while “at least as effective as” federal standards, are not always identical to the federal requirements. (See page 13 for more information on state plans.)

Tools are such a common part of our lives that it is difficult to remember that they may pose hazards. Tragically, a serious incident can occur before steps are taken to identify and avoid or eliminate tool-related hazards.

Employees who use hand and power tools and are exposed to the hazards of falling, flying, abrasive, and splashing objects, or to harmful dusts, fumes, mists, vapors, or gases must be provided with the appropriate personal protective equipment. All electrical connections for these tools must be suitable for the type of tool and the working conditions (wet, dusty, flammable vapors). When a temporary power source is used for construction a ground-fault circuit interrupter should be used.

Employees should be trained in the proper use of all tools. Workers should be able to recognize the hazards associated with the different types of tools and the safety precautions necessary.

Five basic safety rules can help prevent hazards associated with the use of hand and power tools:

• Keep all tools in good condition with regular maintenance.
• Use the right tool for the job.
• Examine each tool for damage before use and do not use damaged tools.
• Operate tools according to the manufacturers’ instructions.

Table of Contents:
What Is the Purpose of This Booklet? .................................... 1
What Are the Hazards of Hand Tools? ................................... 3
What Are the Dangers of Power Tools? ................................. 4
Guards........................................................................... 5
Operating Controls and Switches ................................ 5
Electric Tools ................................................................ 6
Portable Abrasive Wheel Tools .................................... 7
Pneumatic Tools ........................................................... 8
Liquid Fuel Tools ......................................................... 9
Powder-Actuated Tools ................................................ 9
Hydraulic Power Tools ............................................... 11
What Help Can OSHA Provide?............................................ 13
Safety and Health Program Management Guidelines 13
State Programs............................................................ 13
Consultation Services ................................................. 14
Voluntary Protection Programs .................................. 15
Strategic Partnership Program.................................... 15
Training and Education .............................................. 15
Electronic Information ............................................... 16
OSHA Publications .................................................... 17
Emergencies, Complaints, and Further Assistance.... 18
States and Territories with Approved Plans ......................... 19
OSHA Consultation Project Directory ................................... 22
OSHA Area Offices ............................................................... 24
OSHA Regional Offices ......................................................... 27