Regularly inspect your tools to make sure they are in good condition, wear gloves. Each of these tools can be in your tool box and each one must be used safely for the right job. Use the right size and type of wrench for the nut. Is the nut English or metric in size? Can a closed-end wrench (also called a socket wrench) be used for a good fit or is an open-ended wrench necessary to reach the nut? Socket wrenches and ratchets allow you to turn a nut in a tight spot.
An adjustable wrench must be used correctly; make sure the adjustable jaw faces the operator. Wrenches are manufactured in many sizes with a lever length appropriate to the size of the nut to be moved. It's not safe to use a piece of pipe for more leverage. Pipe wrenches and locking pliers are not suitable for use on nuts because a corner of the nut may be broken.
Use the right type of hammer for the specific job. Never hit hardened steel surfaces with a steel hammer. Use a soft metal hammer or one with a plastic, wood, or rawhide head when hitting steel surfaces to align or loosen them. Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from small pieces of metal that could come off the hammer or the object being hit.
Carefully inspect all hammers, including large mallets, before using them to ensure that the head is tight and not damaged. Replace damaged handles and make sure that the handle fits the head correctly. Place the handle firmly on the head and make sure there are no chips or cracks. Never replace the pliers with another tool, such as a wrench, to complete the task.
May cause screw heads to chew. Pliers cannot hold nuts and bolts securely and will slip. If you work with electricity, use insulated hand grips. Make sure that the protective covers do not have cracks or holes.
Use a press when cutting wire with pliers. Hold the open end of the cable with your free hand, foot, or other means to prevent the cut piece from flying through the air. Employees must be trained in the proper use of all hand tools in their workplace. Employees should receive training on the proper use of all hand tools in their workplace.
Workers must be able to recognize the hazards associated with various types of tools and the safety precautions necessary to mitigate exposure. Around flammable substances, sparks produced by iron and steel hand tools can be a dangerous source of ignition. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations on portable and portable power tools and other portable equipment (29 CFR 1910.243 Subpart P) require employees and employers to establish procedures and safeguards associated with manual and portable power tools. In fact, an estimated 8 percent of all compensable workplace injuries are caused by incidents involving hand tools.
The wide variety of hand and power tools on the market today helps workers to be more efficient and to perform more tasks than ever before. It is important to use proper eye protection when working with hand tools to avoid possible eye damage. Hand tools and why they're still important: Although everyone seems to have power saws, lathes, drills, planers and the battery's charging capacity has improved, basic tools, such as hammers, screwdrivers and wrenches, will always fit in your toolbox. The care and maintenance of these tools are sometimes passed down from generation to generation, and they are cleaned and oiled to keep them clean and carefully stored in the basement or garage workshop.
All hand and power tools, whether supplied by the employer or employee, must be kept in a safe condition and inspected for any defects. .
