Section 2.2 Hand and Power Tool Safety 31
allows for a shorting condition that transfers
electricity from the positive (hot) conductor
to the housing of the tool and from there
to the operator. A serious, possibly fatal,
electrical shock can result. Do not use the
tool or machine if the grounding pin has been
removed from the plug.
• Many machines and pieces of power
equipment use drive belts. The operator
is usually protected from these belts with
guards. Since the belts are generally not
seen when the equipment is in motion, they
are commonly overlooked as a potential
hazard. Belts crack and split with age, and
they must be replaced.
• Use machine guards, Figure 2-15. Get
permission fi rst if a special setup requires
temporary removal of a guard. Do not leave
the machine unattended without the guard.
• Inspect the stock (the workpiece) before
beginning a cut. Look for loose knots and
twists that might bind the tools. Make sure
the stock does not contain nails or other
foreign objects.
• Be sure the stock is securely held in place
before beginning any cutting operation.
Check the Area
• Remove all adjustment wrenches, unneeded
tools, and extra material from a power
machine table before the power is turned on.
• Be sure everyone is out of the danger zone
around a machine before beginning an
operation. The danger zone is the area in
and around machinery in which there is a
risk to health and safety.
Using Hand Tools Safely
• Carry sharp tools with their cutting edges
down. Do not carry tools in your pockets.
After use, return tools to their storage place,
Figure 2-16.
• Cut away from your body when using tools
with a sharp cutting edge, Figure 2-17.
• Do not use a fi le that does not have the
handle securely in place.
• Do not allow vise handles to protrude into
the aisles. Do not overtighten them.
• Always store tools in the correct manner.
Improper storage can damage the tool and
make it dangerous to use.
Figure 2-15. Make sure guards are in place before
starting any cutt ing process. This guard is for a
jointer.
Figure 2-16. Store hand tools on a tool rack, not in
your pockets.
Goodheart-Willcox Publisher
Goodheart-Willcox Publisher