Safety Tips for Power Tools
Failure to heed all safety and operating instructions and warnings regarding use of a power tool can result in serious bodily injury.
1. Know your power tool – Read the owner’s manual carefully. Learn its application and limitations as well as the specific potential hazards peculiar to this tool.
2. Ground all tools (unless double insulated) – If tool is equipped with an approved three-conductor cord and a three-prong grounding type plug, it should be plugged into a three hole electrical receptacle. If adapter is used to accommodate a two-hole receptacle, the adapter wire must be attached to a known ground (usually the screw securing receptacle cover plate). Never remove third prong. Never connect green ground wire to a terminal.
3. Keep guards in place – Form a habit of checking to see that keys and adjusting wrenches are removed from tool before turning it on.
4. Remove adjust keys and wrenches – Form a habit of checking to see that keys and adjusting wrenches are removed from tool before turning it on.
5. Keep work area clean – Cluttered areas and benches invite accidents. Floor must not be slippery due to wax or sawdust.
6. Avoid dangerous environment – Do not use power tools in damp or wet locations or expose them to rain. Keep work area well lighted. Provide adequate surrounding work space.
7. Keep children away – All visitors should be kept a safe distance from work area.
8. Make your workshop child-proof – Use padlocks, master switches, or remove starter keys.
9. Do not force tools – Do not force a tool or attachment to do a job it was not designed to perform.
10. Use the right tool – It will do the job better and safer at the rate for which it is designed.
11. Wear correct apparel – Do not wear loose clothing, gloves, neckties or jewelry (rings, wristwatches) that may get caught in moving parts. Non-slip footwear is recommended. Wear protective hair covering to contain long hair. Roll long sleeves above the elbow.
12. Use safety goggles (head protection) – Wear safety goggles (must comply with ANSI Standard Z87.1) at all times. Also, use face or dust mask if cutting operation is dusty, and ear protectors (plugs or muffs) during extended periods of operation.
13. Secure your work – Use clamps or a vise to hold work when practical. It’s safer than using your hands, and both hands are free to operate tool.
14. Do not overreach – Keep proper footing and balance at all times
15. Maintain tools with care – Keep tools sharp and clean for best and safest performance. Follow instructions for lubricating and changing accessories.