KBC -PMC Hazard Park

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Question 1: What should I avoid when using hand tools

You can use a slot screwdriver as a chisel, pry bar, wedge or punch, or wrenches as hammers.
Do not leave tools lying around on elevated structures such as a
platform or scaffold, as they may be bumped and fall.
To get the job done quickly you can apply excessive force or pressure on tools.
For safety reasons you can wear bulky gloves to operate hand tools.

Question 2: What are the main health concerns in working with hand tools?

All hand and power tools, whether furnished by the employer or the employee,
are not necessary to be maintained so long individual is competent to use them
Certain heavy tools, such as a chipping hammer, can produce significant vibration,
which is not responsible for hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS), more commonly known as white finger
Examine each tool for damage after use and never use if damaged
Along with common injuries such as cuts, lacerations, and bruises, the frequent and prolonged use of hand tools can cause
soreness, aches, pains, and fatigue. These injuries, which, when ignored, can lead to chronic musculoskeletal injuries (MSIs).

Question 3: Hand tool safety

Hand tools should be tempered, dressed and repaired by anbody available
Floors should be kept as clean and dry as possible to prevent
accidental slips with or around dangerous hand tools
Hand tools and power tools should be inspected every 10 years by competent persons.
Awkward postures are postures that strain the neck, shoulders, elbows, wrists, hands or back. Bending, stooping, twisting and reaching
are examples of awkward postures. Tool use and body positioning the work piece will not affect your shoulder, elbow, wrist, hand or back posture.

Question 4: Hand tool hazards

Bone fractures due to defective or slipping wrenches and scratches due to scrap.
Adjustable wrench is the tool than can be used and it is always safe to use it
Cutting of fingers, tendons and arteries it cannot be hazard if people are competent to use hand tools
Training on hand tools is not neccesary so long as the super visor trust you in terms of safety

Question 5: Tips for Selecting Hand Tools

Create a tool with a -slip surface for a better grip by adding a sleeve to improve the surface texture of the handle
A tool which can be used with one hand.
Double-handle tools (plier-like) for power tasks: A tool with a grip span at least 2 inches
when fully closed and < 3 1/2 inches when fully open. When continuous force is required, consider using a clamp, a grip or locking pliers.
Double-handle tools. When continuous force is required, consider using both feet as a grip.

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Hand & Power Tools