Powered Hand Tools

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What should you do to work safely with belt sanders?

 Wear safety glasses or goggles, or a face shield.

 Wear a dust respirator for dusty operations.
 Make sure the sander is switched "OFF" before connecting the power supply.
 Disconnect power supply before changing a sanding belt, making adjustments, or
emptying dust collector.
 Inspect sanding belts before using them. Replace those belts worn or frayed.
 Install sanding belts that are the same widths as the pulley drum.
 Adjust sanding belt tension to keep the belt running true and at the same speed as
pulley drum.
 Secure the sanding belt in the direction shown on the belt and the machine.
 Keep hands away from a sanding belt.
 Use two hands to operate sanders - one on a trigger switch and the other on a front
handle knob.
 Keep all cords clear of sanding area during use.
 Clean dust from the motor and vents at regular intervals.

What should you avoid while working with belt senders?

 Do not use a sander without an exhaust system or a dust collector present that is in
good working order. Empty the collector when 1/4 full. The dust created when sanding
can be a fire and explosion hazard. Proper ventilation is essential.
 Do not exert excessive pressure on a moving sander. The weight of the sander
supplies adequate pressure for the job.
 Do not work on unsecured stock unless it is heavy enough to stay in place. Clamp
the stock into place or use a "stop block" to prevent movement.
 Do not overreach. Always keep proper footing and balance.
 Do not cover the air vents of the sander.
 Refer to Powered Hand Tools - Basic Safety for Electric Tools for general safety tips.

Drills
How do you select the proper bit or attachment?

 Follow manufacturers' instructions when selecting and using a bit or attachment,

especially with unfamiliar drills or work.
 Select the bit or attachment suitable for the size of the drill and the work being done.
 Ensure that the bit or attachments are properly seated and tightened in the chuck.
 Use only bits and attachments that turn true.
 Use the auxiliary (second) handle for larger work or continuous operation.

What should you do when working with powered hand drills?

 Wear safety glasses or a face shield.

 Keep drill air vents clear to maintain adequate ventilation.
 Keep drill bits sharp always.
 Keep all cords clear of the cutting area during use. Inspect for frays or damage
before each use.
 Disconnect power supply before changing or adjusting bit or attachments.
 Tighten the chuck securely. Remove chuck key before starting drill.
 Secure workpiece being drilled to prevent movement.

 Slow the rate of feed just before breaking through the surface.
 Drill a small "pilot" hole before drilling large holes.

What should you do when working with small pieces?

 Clamp stock so work will not twist or spin.

 Do not drill with one hand while holding the material with the other.

What should you avoid when working with powered hand drills?

 Do not use a bent drill bit.

 Do not exceed the manufacturer's recommended maximum drilling capacities.
 Do not use a hole saw cutter without the pilot drill.
 Do not use high speed steel (HSS) bits without cooling or using lubrication.
 Do not attempt to free a jammed bit by starting and stopping the drill. Unplug the
drill and then remove the bit from the workpiece.
 Do not reach under or around stock being drilled.
 Do not overreach. Always keep proper footing and balance.
 Do not raise or lower the drill by its power cord.
 Do not use in wet or muddy locations. Use a nonpowered drill instead.
 Do not use excessive force to drill into hard material. Reduce drill speed if possible.

Refer to Powered Hand Tools - Basic Safety for Electric Tools for general safety tips.

Electric Tools - Basic Safety

 When and how should you inspect powered hand tools?

 Inspect tools for any damage prior to each use.

 Check the handle and body casing of the tool for cracks or other damage.
 If the tool has auxiliary or double handles, check to see that they installed securely.
 Inspect cords for defects: check the power cord for cracking, fraying, and other signs
of wear or faults in the cord insulation.
 Check for damaged switches and ones with faulty trigger locks.
 Inspect the plug for cracks and for missing, loose or faulty prongs.

What should you do if you find a tool defective?

 If a tool is defective, remove it from service, and tag it clearly "Out of service for
repair".
 Replace damaged equipment immediately - do not use defective tools "temporarily".
 Have tools repaired by a qualified person - do not attempt field repairs.

What should you do before using powered hand tools?

 Ensure that you have been properly trained to use the tool safely. Read the
operator's manual before using the tool and operate the tool according to the
manufacturer's instructions. Use only tested and approved tools.
 Ensure that the power tool has the correct guard, shield or other attachment that the
manufacturer recommends.
 Prevent shocks. Ensure that the tools are properly grounded using a three-prong
plug, are double-insulated (and are labelled as such), or are powered by a low-voltage
isolation transformer: this will protect users from an electrical shock.
 Check electric tools to ensure that a tool with a 3-prong plug has an approved 3-wire
cord and is grounded. The three-prong plug should be plugged in a properly grounded 3-
pole outlet. If an adapter must be used to accommodate a two-hole receptacle, the
adapter wire must be attached to a known, functioning ground. NEVER remove the third,
grounding prong from a plug.

 Replace open front plugs with dead front plugs. Dead front plugs are sealed and
present less danger of shock or short circuit.
 Have a qualified electrician install a polarized outlet if the polarized, two-prong plug
of a double-insulated tool does not fit in a two-hole receptacle. Double insulated tools use
plugs having one prong that is visibly wider than the other.
 Test all tools for effective grounding with a continuity tester or a ground fault circuit
interrupter (GFCI) before use.
 Use only the kind of battery that the tool manufacturer specifies for the battery-
powered tool that you are using.
 Recharge a battery-powered tool only with a charger that is specifically intended for
the battery in that tool.
 Remove the battery from the tool or ensure that the tool is switched off or locked off
before changing accessories, making adjustments, or storing the tool.
 Store a battery pack safely so that no metal parts, nails, screws, wrenches and so on
can come in contact with the battery terminals; this could result in shorting the battery
and possibly cause sparks, fires or burns.


What should you do while using powered hand tools?

 Wear or use personal protective equipment (PPE) or clothing that is appropriate for
the work you are doing; this may include items such as safety glasses or goggles, hearing
protection, dust mask, gloves, safety boots or shoes, or rubber boots.
 Switch off the tools before connecting them to a power supply.
 If a power cord feels more than comfortably warm or if a tool is sparking, have it
checked by an electrician or other qualified person.
 Disconnect the power supply before making adjustments or changing accessories.
 Remove any wrenches and adjusting tools before turning on a tool.
 Inspect the cord for fraying or damage before each use. Tag defective tools clearly
with an "Out of service" tag and replace immediately with a tool in good running order.
 During use, keep power cords clear of tools and the path that the tool will take.
 Use clamps, a vice or other devices to hold and support the piece being worked on,
when practical to do so. This will allow you to use both hands for better control of the tool
and will help prevent injuries if a tool jams or binds in a work piece.
 Use only approved extension cords that have the proper wire size (gauge) for the
length of cord and power requirements of the electric tool that you are using. This will
prevent the cord from overheating.
 For outdoor work, use outdoor extension cords marked "W-A" or "W".
 Suspend power cords over aisles or work areas to eliminate stumbling or tripping
hazards.
 Eliminate octopus connections: if more than one receptacle plug is needed, use a
power bar or power distribution strip that has an integral power cord and a built-in
overcurrent protection.
 Pull the plug, not the cord when unplugging a tool. Pulling the cord causes wear and
may adversely affect the wiring to the plug and cause electrical shock to the operator.
 Follow good housekeeping procedures - keep the work area free of clutter and debris
that could be tripping or slipping hazards.
 Keep power cords away from heat, water, oil, sharp edges and moving parts. They
can damage the insulation and cause a shock.
 Ensure that cutting tools, drill bits, etc. are kept sharp, clean and well maintained.
 Store tools in a dry, secure location when they are not being used.
 What should you avoid when using powered tools?

 Do not wear gloves, loose clothing or jewelry while using revolving power tools. Tie
back long hair or wear appropriate hair protection to prevent hair from getting caught in
moving parts of equipment.
 Do not use a tool unless you have been trained to use it safely and know its
limitations and hazards.
 Avoid accidental starting by ensuring the tool is turned off before you plug it in. Also
do not walk around with a plugged-in tool with your finger touching the switch.
 Do not bypass the ON/OFF switch and operate the tools by connecting and
disconnecting the power cord.
 Do not disconnect the power supply of the tool by pulling or jerking the cord from
the outlet.
 Do not leave a running tool unattended. Do not leave it until it has been turned off,
has stopped running completely, and has been unplugged.
 Do not use electric tools in wet conditions or damp locations unless tool is connected
to a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI).
 Do not expose electric power tools to rain or wet conditions; wet tools increase the
likelihood of electric shock.
 Avoid body contact with grounded surfaces like refrigerators, pipes and radiators
when using electric powered tools; this will reduce the likelihood of shock if the operator's
body is grounded.
 Do not plug several power cords into one outlet by using single-to-multiple outlet
adapters or converters ("cube taps").
 Do not use light duty power cords.
 Stop using an electric power tool if you feel a tingle in your fingers. This is a warning
that the tool is faulty and needs repair.
 Do not connect or splice extension cords together to make a longer connection: the
resulting extension cord may not be able to provide sufficient current or power safely.
 Do not carry electrical tools by the power cord.
 Do not tie power cords in knots. Knots can cause short circuits and shocks. Loop the
cords or use a twist lock plug.

 Never break off the third prong on a plug: replace broken 3-prong plugs and make
sure the third prong is properly grounded.

 Never use extension cords as permanent wiring: use extension cords only as a
temporary power supply to an area that does not have a power outlet.
 Do not walk on or allow vehicles or other moving equipment to pass over
unprotected power cords. Cords should be put in conduits or protected by placing planks
on each side of them.

 Do not bush away sawdust, shavings or turnings while the tool is running. Never use
compressed air for cleaning surfaces or removing sawdust, metal turnings, etc.

 Do not operate tools in an area containing explosive vapours or gases.

 Do not clean tools with flammable or toxic solvents.

 Do not surprise or touch anyone who is operating a tool. Startling a tool operator
could end up causing an accident or injury.

 Ergonomics
What are the ergonomic concerns for selecting powered hand tools?

 Select tools that can be used without bending the wrist. Hand tools should allow the
operator to grasp, hold, and use the tool with the wrist held straight.

 Select the tool with the workplace layout and job design in mind. Sometimes a tool is
correct for one operation and incorrect for another.
 Use the right tool for the job. Ensure it is the right size and has sufficient power to
do the job safely. When there is a choice, select a tool of a low weight.
 Select low-vibrating tools.
 Choose tools with vibration-absorbing handles, like those covered with cork, rubber,
plastic or plastic bonded to steel, to reduce hand-arm vibration.
 Choose hand tools that have the centre of gravity within or close to the handle.
 Select tools with rounded and smooth handles that you can grip easily.
 If they are available, choose hand tools with double handles to permit easier holding
and better manipulation of the tool.

 Select tools with a trigger strip, rather than a trigger button. This strip will allow you
to exert more force over a greater area of the hand that, in turn, will reduce muscle
fatigue.
 Ensure that the trigger works easily to reduce the effort needed to operate it.

How can you reduce the ergonomic hazards of working with powered hand tools?

 Ensure that your tool is well maintained and in good repair.

 Frequently-used tools that weigh more than 0.5 kg (1 pound) should be counter-
balanced.
 Hold the tool close to the body. Do not overreach.
 Keep good balance and proper footing at all times. This will help operators to control
the tool better, especially in response to unexpected situations.
 Rest your hands by putting the tool down when you are not using it.
 Reduce power to the lowest setting that can complete the job safely. This action
reduces tool vibration at the source.
 Consider wearing anti-vibration gloves. However, you should not wear thick or heavy
gloves if operating the tool requires precise movements. The OSH Answers document
"Vibration - Measurement, Control and Standards" has additional information on anti-
vibration gloves.

Planers
What should you do before you start cutting with a planer?

 Wear safety glasses or goggles, or a face shield and use the appropriate hearing
protection.
 Disconnect the planer from the power supply before making any adjustments to the
cutter head or blades.
 Ensure switch is in off position before plugging in.
 Use blades of the same weight and set at the same height.
 Ensure that the blade-locking screws are tight.
 Remove adjusting keys and wrenches before turning on power.
 Support the material (stock) in a comfortable position that will allow the job to be
done safely and accurately.
 Check stock thoroughly for staples, nails, screws, or other foreign objects before
using a planer.
 Do not cut stock less than 20 cm (8 in) long or 1 cm (0.5 in) thick.

What should you do while cutting with a planer?

 Start a cut with the infeed table (front shoe) resting firmly on the stock and with the
cutter head slightly behind the edge of the stock.
 Use two hands to operate a planer - one hand on the trigger switch and the other on
a front handle.
 Do not put your finger or any object in a deflector to clean out chips while a planer is
running.
 Disconnect the power supply when stopping to dump out chips.
 Do not set a planer down until blades have stopped turning.
 Stand on the side of the planer near the controls. Never stand behind stock when
being fed into the planer.
 Keep all cords clear of cutting area.
 Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance.

Refer to Powered Hand Tools - Basic Safety for Electric Tools for general safety tips.

Saws – Circular
What should you do before start cutting with a circular saw?

 Wear safety glasses or goggles, or a face shield.

 Wear an approved respirator or dust mask when exposed to harmful or nuisance
dusts.
 Use appropriate hearing protection equipment in noisy areas.
 Check the retracting lower blade guard to make certain it works freely.
 Ensure that the blade that you have selected is sharp enough to do the job. Sharp
blades work better and are safer.
 Check the saw for proper blade rotation.
 Set the depth of the blade, while the saw is unplugged, and lock it at a depth so that
the lowest tooth does not extend more than about 0.3 cm (1/8") beneath the wood.
 Keep all cords clear of cutting area.
 Circular saws are designed for right-hand operation; left-handed operation will
demand more care to operate safely.

What should you do to work safely with a circular saw?

 Check the retracting lower blade guard frequently to make certain it works freely. It
should enclose the teeth as completely as possible, and cover the unused portion of the
blade when cutting.
 Check that the retracting lower blade guard has returned to its starting position
before laying down the saw.
 Keep upper and retracting lower blade guard clean and free of sawdust.
 Disconnect power supply before adjusting or changing the blade.
 Allow the saw to reach full power before starting to cut
 Use two hands to operate saws - one on a trigger switch and the other on a front
knob handle.
 Keep motor free from accumulation of dust and chips.
 Select the correct blade for stock being cut and allow it to cut steadily. Do not force
it.
 Secure stock being cut to avoid movement.

What should you avoid when cutting with a circular saw?

 Do not hold or force the retracting lower guard in the open position.
 Do not place hand under the shoe or guard of the saw.
 Do not over tighten the blade-locking nut.
 Do not twist the saw to change, cut or check alignment.
 Do not use a saw that vibrates or appears unsafe in any way.
 Do not force the saw during cutting.
 Do not cut materials without first checking for obstructions or other objects such as
nails and screws.
 Do not carry the saw with a finger on the trigger switch.
 Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance.
 Do not rip stock without using a wedge or guide clamped or nailed to the stock.
Refer to Powered Hand Tools - Basic Safety for Electric Tools for general safety tips.