Power Tools and Safety Guidelines

Power Tool Types

• Handheld power tools: Designed for use by one person, often with corded or cordless electric motors/batteries.
• Examples: drills, saws, sanders, grinders, polishers, etc.
• Stationary power tools: Larger, fixed tools often requiring a dedicated power source and often operated by a skilled person.
• Examples: jointers, planers, routers, lathes, etc.
• Specific tools vary in function and applications, each requiring specific handling and operating procedures.
• Understanding the purpose of each tool is essential for safe operation.

Tool Safety

• Safety glasses or face shields: Essential to protect eyes from flying debris.
• Hearing protection: Prevents damage from loud noises generated by some tools.
• Work gloves: Protect hands from cuts, abrasions, and contact with sharp objects.
• Proper footwear: Closed-toe shoes to protect feet.
• Electrical safety: Inspect cords for damage before use; avoid working near water and ensure proper grounding.
• Tool-specific safety precautions: Each tool may have additional safety features, like guards for blades or motors.
• Ensure adequate ventilation: Reduce respiratory risk when using tools producing dust or fumes.
• Always check the manufacturer's instructions/manual specific to the tool.
• Never operate a tool with a damaged/defective part.
• Follow the lockout/tagout procedure when servicing or maintaining tools.
• Securely hold the tool when operating.
• Maintain a safe distance from others.

Operation Techniques

• Reading the instructions before use: Understanding the specific function, controls, and potential hazards.

• Correct posture: Prevents fatigue and injury.

• Proper grip: For controlling the tool during operation to minimize risks of being thrown or causing injury.

• Appropriate set up: For the work surface; the environment; tool position and any supporting elements.

• Starting procedure: Procedures may vary from model to model, each set to optimize the tool's functionality while safeguarding the operator.

• Tool speed and power settings: Adjust according to the task to prevent damage to work materials, the tool itself, and operator safety.

• Tool usage and application: Different tools are most effective in specific tasks.

• Feeding and removing material: Ensuring appropriate speeds in feeding and removing material from the tool.

• Avoiding accidental starting: Prevents injuries to the operator and others as well as damage to the tool or work surface.

• Using the correct accessories: Matching accessories with the tool to achieve the desired result and maintain performance.

Maintenance Practices

• Cleaning: Regularly clean tools to remove dust and debris.
• Lubrication: Lubricating moving parts ensures smoother operation and extends tool lifespan.
• Sharpening: Sharp cutting edges increase precision and efficiency and reduce the risk of injuries and material damage.
• Maintaining/replacing parts: Repairing or replacing parts as needed, which ensures that power tools consistently perform well, resulting in less risk and maximized performance.
• Inspections: Regularly check for wear and tear.
• Storing tools properly: Protects them from damage.
• Proper disposal of old equipment: To reduce any risks.
• Storing tools correctly: Prevents tools from damage.
• Regular checks for loose parts, damaged cables/cord, or worn-out components.
• Following manufacturer's recommendations in the manual for correct maintenance intervals.
• Understand and use correct safety procedures during maintenance.