FACTS
- Hand tools are non-powered. They include anything from axes to wrenches. The greatest hazards posed by hand tools result from misuse and improper maintenance.
- The employer is responsible for the safe condition of tools and equipment used by employees, but the employees have the responsibility for properly using and maintaining tools.
- Employers should caution employees that saw blades, knives, or other tools be directed away from aisle areas and other employees working in close proximity. Knives and scissors must be sharp. Dull tools can be more hazardous than sharp ones.
- Appropriate personal protective equipment, e.g., safety goggles, gloves, etc., should be worn due to hazards that may be encountered while using portable power tools and hand tools.
- Safety requires that floors be kept as clean and dry as possible to prevent accidental slips with or around dangerous hand tools.
- Around flammable substances, sparks produced by iron and steel hand tools can be a dangerous ignition source. Where this hazard exists, spark-resistant tools made from brass, plastic, aluminum, or wood will provide for safety.
STATS
- Surveys estimate that hand tools and power tools cause an average of nearly 400,000 visits to the emergency room each year. Of those injured, more than 200 die.
- Power nailers or nail guns: 37,000 emergency room visits/year.
- John Deere-type Riding Lawn Mowers: 37,000 hospital visits a year.
- Chain Saws: 36,000 ER visits/year.
- Stationary Table Saws: 29,000 ER visits/year.
- Snowblowers: 5,7000 ER Visits per year; 19 deaths recorded since 1992.
- Circular or Rotary Saws: 10,600 ER cases/year.
- Power Drills: 5,800.
- Backhoes: Average of 38 construction fatalities a year.
- Air Compression Devices: 2,400.
- Wood Chippers: Average of 3 deaths a year.