Script for Hand and Portable Power Tools PowerPoint Presentation

Slide 1 – 2. No notes.

Slide 3. If tools are available, show them (both good and damaged) to the class. Ask the class to identify potential hazards with the various tools.

It is easy to overlook hazards on hand tools, or figure that it is no big deal. You might think, “I’ll just use it this once.” Another favorite, “I’ll send this in for repair as soon as I finish this job.”

Most tool manufacturers will build them with adequate safety devices. As an employee who uses power tools, one of your jobs is to inspect tools before each use to be sure there is no damage. It’s important to use tools only for the jobs they were intended to do. Otherwise, important safety features may be useless. It is also a good idea to have a tool checklist attached to the cord, if powered, as a daily reminder to inspect the tool for problems.

Slide 4. If things like mushroom-head chisels are available, display them to the class.

Using a screwdriver as a chisel could break the screwdriver, resulting in metal fragments striking the user. If the handle comes off the head of the tool, it could easily become a serious projectile.

Sprung jaws prevent the wrench from adequately clamping on the object, thus resulting in slippage, which could injure the user.

Be sure that employees are trained to not take shortcuts. Most often the reason for improper use of tools is the time it would take to obtain the proper one, especially if maintenance is out in the field.

Slide 5. General housekeeping is important for minimizing the potential of slips, trips, and falls while using tools.

When there is a risk of flying particles from tool use, it is imperative to wear safety glasses and/or face shields. It may be necessary to use fire curtains or blankets to minimize contact with flammable materials. Tools in use near aisleways can throw debris at passersby, thus creating an additional hazard. For work being done around flammables, make sure all permits are completed and precautions are taken prior to using tools.

Slide 6. Regardless of the source of energy, tools offer dangers due to their power, speed, and sharp edges. Each of these types of power tools has specific hazards.

Slide 7. Carrying a tool by the cord or yanking the plug can result in loose wires, creating an additional fire hazard. Foreign materials can degrade hoses and cords, exposing electrical wiring, etc. Always disconnect tools when not in use to prevent accidental start-up. Anyone watching the work may be exposed to flying debris. If materials are not secured, they can “kick back,” injuring the operator. Always make sure that cords are not strung through water or other liquids. Although these rules seem obvious or simple, they are often violated, which is why we need to talk about them in this session.

Slide 8. Keep tools well lubricated and maintained to be sure they work properly. Never wear loose clothing or jewelry when you work near moving parts. These things can easily get caught and take a body part with them! Also, always keep long hair tied back. Mark damaged tools clearly and notify your supervisor.

Slide 9. No notes. Slide 10. Bring tools that have guards on them, such as a circular saw, into the class and demonstrate how they operate.

Point of operation is the location where the tool actually performs the work. In-running nip points are the entry type of pinch points. With hand tools, rotating parts and flying chips and sparks are a big concern.

Slide 11. These tools have momentary switches that allow the tool to be turned off when the trigger mechanism is released. It is acceptable to have a lock-on switch if it can be disengaged with a simple finger movement on the trigger device itself.

Slide 12. Misusing an electrical tool can result in serious injury. Following these rules will ensure the safe operation of the tool.

Insulated gloves and footwear should be worn to prevent electric shock. Moisture can affect the electrical circuit in the tool, leading to a possible shock hazard and reducing the life of the tool itself. If the operators cannot clearly see the work they are doing, hazards are increased.

Slide 13. Remember that on some grinding operations, it may be necessary to wear facial protection in the form of a full face shield with safety glasses underneath.

Power should be disconnected to avoid inadvertent start-up. A hand-held grinder in a vise could shake loose and injure the operator.

Slide 14. If you are not familiar with pneumatic tools, it is important that you receive additional training to ensure safe tool use. When using pneumatic tools, the quick bursts of air create forces that can break damaged fasteners, etc. Air lines create noise when the pressure is released, and therefore, operators may be required to wear hearing protection.

Slide 15. Always read the manufacturer’s operation manual prior to using these tools. Employees who are not familiar with this type of tool should not use them until those employees have been properly trained. Remember, although these are not guns, they can cause damage like one!

Slide 16. If a jack cannot be used on a level surface, tow the vehicle or move the object in question prior to using the jack. Keep the jack centered to prevent tipping. If the jack head slips, the object that is being jacked can fall. During the actual “jacking” of the object, keep your body out from behind the jacking mechanism and completely clear of the object being lifted.

Slide 17. Display or pass around some examples of operation manuals for various tools used at your facility. If inspection sheets are available, pass around samples to the audience. There is another PowerPoint presentation available on PPE.

Remember these five keys to power tool safety. In doing so, you’re helping to protect yourself, as well as your co-workers, from injury.

Slide 18 - 21. No notes.