Handle your Hand Tools the Right Way – Basic Safety Rules and Operational Techniques

There is a misconception that hand tools are dangerous to use. But, the truth is that hand tools aren’t dangerous by themselves. In fact, misusing tools or using poor quality tools is the leading cause of accidents by tools. When used correctly and with the proper safety measures, you can drastically reduce the chances of accidents.

Here, in today’s post, we give you a list of the basic safety rules to keep in mind, while using hand tools.

General Safety Rules to Follow While Using Hand Tools

1. Inspect Your Tools before the Job

Never use a damaged or defective hand tool. Make sure that the tool you are about to use is in good working condition. Practice the habit of inspecting your tools both before and after use. If you are re-sharpening or re-fitting tools, make sure that you follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

2. Choose the Right Tool for the Job

Make sure you are using the correct tool for the task. Different tools are specifically designated for specific tasks. Replacing one tool for another is dangerous and could lead to accidents.

3. Always wear the Right PPE

Personal protective equipment like hard hats, safety goggles, and overalls are a must to protect you while using hand tools. This gear helps you from sustaining injuries in case you lose grip of the tool during operation.

4. Don’t Modify/Alter your Tools on Your Own

Removing safety clips or finger guards from hand tools can prove to be disastrous. Don’t cover up or paint tools on your own, as this prevents you from noticing cracks and chips in it.

5. Handle your Tools with Care

Tools aren’t toys. Don’t throw or toss it to a co-worker. While passing tools between co-workers, ensure that you let them know that you are passing it.

6. Transport and Store Tools the Right Way

When carrying tools up a ladder, don’t pass it from one person to another or lift it by hand. Instead, use a bag or bucket to hoist tools from the ground to the workers above. While working at heights, ensure that you don’t leave tools lying out in the open. This could present a fatal hazard to the workers below.

Wherever possible, use clamps and bench vices to secure tools to a steady surface, to avoid slipping. Don’t carry pointed tools in your pocket. Always use a cart or a toolbox. Instead, of keeping extra tools lying around, store them in a handy tool case.

7. Have Space

When working with hand tools, ensure that you have sufficient room to operate without dashing against other objects, walls or co-workers. Plant your feet on a stable surface, provide yourself with adequate support, while using hand tools.

8. Clean your Workspace

Don’t leave idle tools lying around the job site. A cluttered and messy workplace is one of the main reasons for tripping, falls and accidentally dropping tools on one’s hands and legs.

9. Get the Right Training

While hand tools like wrenches, chisels, bench vices, hacksaws, hammers, pricks, pry bars, scrapers, and others seem easy to use, several proper techniques must be followed. Ensure that your employees are provided with the right training to handle these tools.

10. Above all, Buy Quality Tools

This cannot be stressed enough. Any hand tool you choose should be made of high-quality steel, heat-treated and properly built. With Alok Tools, you are assured of the finest craftsmanship and engineering precision. With the prestigious ISO 9001:2015 certification, you not only get the best value for your money but the best quality tools, that last for years to come without any troubles.

Now, that you’re acquainted with the general safety rules for hand tools, let’s take a look at the safety rules for individual tools.

Do’s and Don’ts for Handling Hammers

• Don’t use the “cheek” of the hammer to strike nails and other objects. Always use the head.
• Don’t strike one hammer against another.
• Use a claw hammer to drive and pull nails.
• Don’t use a hammer if your hands are wet, greasy or oily.

Do’s and Don’ts for Handling Saws

• Don’t use saws that have a dull blade.
• Keep your fingers away from the blade, while using the saw.
• Never carry a saw by holding the blade. Always use the handle.
• Make sure that you oil the blade after each use.

Do’s and Don’ts for Using Hand Files

• Don’t use a file as a hammer, chisel, pry bar or hammer.
• When using a file, grasp the handle in one hand and the toe of the file in the other.
• Don’t strike a hammer on the file.

Do’s and Don’ts for Using Chisels

• Always make sure that your chisel has a sharp edge. Don’t use a chisel that has dull edges.
• Use a tool holder, to hold the chisel.
• When you are working with a chisel, clamp small work pieces using vices and chip towards the stationary jaw.

Do’s and Don’ts for Handling Toolboxes and Tool-chests

• When opening or closing the toolbox or chest, always grip the handle.
• Don’t stand on toolboxes or chests to gain extra height on the job.
• Do not open more than one tool drawer at a time.
• Close and lock all the drawers before moving the toolbox from one place to another.
• Don’t use the toolbox as a workbench.

That’s it. These are the general safety rules to follow while using hand tools. Make sure that you follow all the tips listed here to avoid fatal injuries and accidents on the job.