To read the full document, and to print, click here (137 KB).

This fact sheet provides safety information related to working with hand tools, power tools, and explosive-actuated fastening tools in order to ensure accident prevention.

ACCIDENT PREVENTION

1. Be aware of and follow all Municipal, Provincial and Federal codes, ordinances and regulations.
2. Inspect all equipment before using.
3. Keep all equipment in good repair.
4. DO NOT REMOVE machine guards.
5. Wear/use approved protective equipment at all times
6. Remove rings, watches and loose clothing; suitably confine long hair.
7. Inspect work area for unsafe conditions. Where needed eliminate or substitute.
8. Keep work areas in a clean and safe condition.
9. Follow all lockout/tag-out procedures as required.
10. Hold regular Safety Meetings and Toolbox talks on topics such as new equipment, procedures, policies, or orientations.

HAND TOOLS

1. Keep all hand tools clean, in good repair.
2. Use all hand tools for the purpose for which they were intended (i.e. a screwdriver is not a chisel and vice versa).
3. Do not carry sharp/pointed objects in pockets.
4. Secure all tools when working at heights.

POWER TOOLS

1. Make all adjustments and tighten all locking devices before attaching tool to power supply.
2. Make sure tool is switched off before connecting to power supply.
3. Use a grounded outlet, grounded extention cords, and/or a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter.
4. Always use fence/guide, push-stick, appropriately.
5. Maintain appropriate safety margin between cutting edge and hands.
6. Keep blades/bits etc sharp.
7. Keep the tool and surrounding work area in a clean and safe condition.
8. Follow manufacturuer’s maintenance instructions.
9. Handle all air-actuated devices with extreme caution.
10. Inspect tool and electrical cords.

EXPLOSIVE-ACTUATED FASTENING TOOLS

1. The most impportant factor in achieving safe, satisfactory use of explosive-actuated fastening systems is operator training. Only trained and competent operators shall use explosive-actuated tools.
2. All operators shall wear appropriate PPE (eye and ear protection and/or face shields).
3. The latest edition of the Use the Canadian Standards Association Standard series Z166-M85 and any additional or Amendment thereto shall be used as a guide for the safe operation and maintenance of explosive-actuated tools.