How to use Power Tools Safely

Power tools are fundamental tools for professionals DIY entusiasts alike. They are favored as they help users to save time and they also make the job easier. However, they need to be handled carefully otherwise they can lead to injury. Mishaps usually occur due to negligence, boredom, and overconfidence.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Safety Glasses
• Safety Ear Protectors
• Clothes
• Lighting
• Clean Work Surface

1. It is important to know the right tools for the job in order to avoid injury to yourself and damage to the materials. It is advisable to thoroughly read the instruction manuals provided with the equipment and get familiar with the recommended safety precautions.
2. # Safety Glasses: Prevent dust, debris, wood shavings, shards from fiberglass, amongst other nasties from getting into the eyes. Of all the basic saftey elements safety glasses must be used when working with power tools.
   
   # Ear Safety: Power tools can create a lot of noise, which may sound louder in the cloistered environment of a workshop; in order to minimise damage to the ears, it is advisable to wear earplugs.
   
   # Clothes: Long hair should be tied and loose clothing should be avoided. Ideally, clothing that covers the entire body should be worn and heavy gloves should be used in order to avoid sharp implements and splinters from hurting the hands. Dust masks prevent inhalation of harmful minute particles of the material that is being worked upon. Steel-toed work boots and hard hats can also be worn.
3. # Cleanliness: Dust particles can accumulate in the work area and can ignite with a spark, cleanliness must be maintained to avoid this danger. Of course, flammable liquids should be kept covered and away from the place where power tools are being used. Often distractions caused by a tangled cord can result in an accident.
   
   # Care: Extra care should be taken while using nail guns and power belt sanders to avoid nailing yourself to the item you are working on, gloves should be worn at all times.
   
   # Storage: Power tools should be returned to their cabinets after use to prevent them from being used by an unauthorised and incapable person.
   
   # Lighting: It is important to use proper lighting while working with power tools, particularly when working in the basement and garage where lighting may not be satisfactory.

Tips & Warnings

• Tool Inspection: Never use Power tools in wet environments and you should never dip them in water; they should be checked periodically for exposed wiring, damaged plugs, and loose plug pins. Nicked cords can be taped but if a cut appears to be deep, a cord should be replaced. Tools that are damaged or those that sound and feel different when used should be checked and repaired.
• Do not carry tools by their cords; if you are not using your power tool then it should be disconnected; and while handling a tool connected to a power source, fingers should be kept away from the on/off switch.