Power tools are present on every construction site and in nearly every home. They can speed up construction projects and require less physical exertion on the part of the operator. However, with the advantages they bring also comes risk.
It’s in the name — power tools are powerful, and when you incorrectly use them, they can cause significant injury. Each year, power tools are responsible for over 400,000 emergency room visits. It’s crucial to think about how to use them securely before you start working on your project.
Fortunately, you can easily prevent many mistakes from happening by identifying possible risks and taking every precaution before, during, and after use. Below are some safety advice and descriptions that will provide you with easy-to-follow directions and recommendations for safely using power tools.
Tip #1. Read the Instruction Manual
Even a single second of improper operation can result in substantial risk and damage. Therefore, every power tool comes with a user handbook. Every manufacturer will include a user handbook that explains how to operate the specified power tool. However, failure to read the instruction guide could lead to unpleasant outcomes.
The instruction handbook is full of information that will help you:
- Reduce the user’s chances of getting injured.
- Strengthen the safety of the user.
- Describe how to operate the equipment.
Tip #2. Inspection Is Key
Before you begin working, make sure to inspect each power tool. Examine your machines for any signs of damage. After years of consistent use, a device can be prone to damage due to wear and tear. Even if your power tool is newly purchased, you need to be attentive to its structure.
Right after opening the box, look for any factory defects. If you notice some issues, return it to the manufacturer, rental service, or retailer as soon as possible. If you are at work, present it to your employer and request a replacement.
Before using a power tool, double-check all adjustments and look for defects or damages. It’s possible that someone else at home or work used the equipment before you and modified one of the settings. That’s why it’s vital to ensure that the configuration is accurate before you decide to use the tools.
Tip #3. Use Personal Protective Equipment
When operating power tools, your first layer of protection must be personal protective equipment. Ensure you have all of the necessary personal protective equipment on hand before you start working. You can begin with safety glasses to keep fiberglass, shavings, debris, and dust out of your eyes. Earplugs are also convenient for safeguarding your ears. Keep in mind that even if you have high-quality power tools, they can still make enough noise to damage your hearing in certain situations.
Of course, you should also make sure that your hands are secured. Wear a pair of gloves that are the proper size for you. Pick a good pair that won’t impair your dexterity or obstruct your movement. Moreover, invest in a sturdy safety helmet if you’re working at heights or in locations with restricted space.
Tip #4. Observe The Environment With Caution
The workplace itself can be a significant security threat. Keeping the surroundings safe when handling a jackhammer, circular saw, or electric drill is essential. Additionally, the use of power tools that require an air compressor is a common hazard. Both the user and everyone else in the area can trip and fall due to the hose. To prevent dangers, have the compressor hose visible and alert others about it.
Tip #5. Create an Emergency Space
While taking sufficient safety precautions will potentially reduce the likelihood of an accident, you should still be alert in case something does happen. If working on a home improvement project, make a portion of your home workshop into an emergency response center. Your emergency response center must have a fully stocked first-aid kit, a fire extinguisher, and a phone with emergency numbers clearly displayed.
Ensure Regular Maintenance of Your Power Tools
Regular maintenance is necessary for power tools, and failing to do so will make the most massive power tool safety misstep. For that reason, you can do the maintenance by keeping track of routine tool maintenance in a log. Doing so will guarantee that your pieces of equipment are in good operating order and will not cause any possible threat.
After each usage, you must thoroughly clean the tools. With that, it will make the material more robust and hinder it from deteriorating. Consider changing the power tool if you discover any issues that cannot be fixed any longer. Also, avoid using outdated tools because they may break down while in use.
Rent The Right Power Tools For The Job
At Elephant Construction Solutions, our quality equipment serves professionals and hobbyists alike with high-quality tools and accessories that you’ll need to get the job done right. Located in the Rio Grande Valley, we offer many different options for rent, such as: saws, drills, and many other power tools, professional construction equipment, as well as other machinery, including air compressors, power generators, and even scaffolding.
Reach out to us at Elephant Construction Solutions to get a free quote for any power tools or machinery you may need for your next job or project. Whether it’s as simple as a lawnmower, as important as scaffolding, or as small as a circular saw, we have the best in high quality products you are looking for.