Tool Safety

When using power tools, basic safety practices should always be followed, whether they are in the hands of a professional, or a novice do-it-yourselfer.  Though the majority of power tools are not complicated to operate, if basic safety practices are not followed, the operator can potentially cause themselves, or others, serious injury.

Basics of Keeping Yourself Safe at Work:

Work Area

Before commencing any work, you should always ensure your work area is safe. The following checks may seem simple points to follow, however individuals have been caused harm by ignoring these basic steps:

Your work area should be kept clean, and well lit. Cluttered, and poorly lit working spaces, are an invitation for accidents to happen.

Bystanders, pets, and children should be kept away from the work area whilst operating power tools, as distractions can cause you to lose control.

Be wary of the atmosphere you are working in, as power tools can create sparks, and may ignite fumes, and gases.

Personal Safety

Before operating any power tools, you should ensure you take responsibility for your own safety, by following the basic safety checks below:

Always ensure you read, and understand the operator’s manual, before commencing work.

Keep tools in good condition, and only use for the purpose they are intended.

Stay alert, and fully aware of the work you are doing when using a power tool – any distractions can cause injury, or damage.

Dress appropriately – don’t wear loose baggy clothing, or jewelry, and keep long hair tied back as these can be caught in machines.

Personal Protective Equipment

There is a variety of personal protective equipment (PPE) designed to protect the individual’s body from injury, whilst operating power tools. When operating any power tools, you should always think of the task at hand, and ensure you have the right equipment to protect yourself:-

Goggles – to protect your eyes from sparks, or flying particles

Gloves – to protect hands from cuts and burns

Hard Hat – to protect head from falling objects

Steel Toe Cap Boots – to protect feet from heavy objects

Face Mask – to prevent inhalation of dangerous fumes

By following all of the above basic safety checks, you will dramatically reduce the risk of injury whilst operating power tools. For further information on tool safety, please do not hesitate to contact Speedy Plastics and Resins on local number (0844) 8586670, and our team will be delighted to help.