| Power tools are indispensable for professionals | | | | sharp implements and splinters from hurting the |
| and those who tackle DIY home improvement | | | | hands. Masks prevent inhalation of harmful minute |
| jobs. They are favored as they help users to | | | | particles of the material that is being worked |
| save time and they also make the job easier. | | | | upon. Steel-toed work boots and hard hats can |
| However, they need to be handled carefully | | | | also be worn. |
| otherwise they can lead to injury. Mishaps usually | | | | 6. Tool inspection: Power tools should not be |
| occur due to negligence, boredom, and | | | | employed in wet environments and should never |
| overconfidence. By keeping the following 10 | | | | be dipped in water; they should be checked |
| safety issues in mind, it is possible to work | | | | periodically for exposed wiring, damaged plugs, |
| satisfactorily and safely with power tools. | | | | and loose plug pins. Nicked cords can be taped but |
| 1. Safety glasses: These prevent dust, debris, | | | | if a cut appears to be deep, a cord should be |
| wood shavings, shards from fiberglass, etc from | | | | replaced. Tools that are damaged or those that |
| getting into the eyes. Safety glasses are one of | | | | sound and feel different when used should be |
| the most basic pieces of safety equipment that | | | | checked and repaired. |
| must be used when working with power tools. | | | | 7. Cleanliness in the work area: This should be |
| 2. Protection for the ears: Power tools can | | | | maintained because accumulated dust particles in |
| generate a lot of noise, which may sound louder in | | | | the air can ignite with a spark. Of course, |
| the cloistered environment of a workshop; in | | | | flammable liquids should be kept covered and |
| order to minimize damage to the ears, it is | | | | away from the place where power tools are |
| advisable to wear earplugs. | | | | being used. An uncluttered work area also makes |
| 3. Knowing the right tools for the job: It is | | | | it easy to maneuver the power tool; often |
| important to know the right tools for the job in | | | | distractions caused by a tangled cord can result in |
| order to avoid injury to oneself and damage to | | | | an accident. |
| the materials. To this end, it is advisable to | | | | 8. Care with particular tools: Miter saws and table |
| thoroughly read the instruction manuals provided | | | | saws should be used with a quick-release clamp |
| with the equipment and get familiar with the | | | | and a wood push-through, respectively. Extra care |
| recommended safety precautions. | | | | should be taken while using nail guns and power |
| 4. Correct method of using tools: Tools should not | | | | belt sanders. |
| be carried by their cords; tools that are not in use | | | | 9. Keep tools in place: Power tools should be |
| should be disconnected; and while handling a tool | | | | returned to their cabinets after use to prevent |
| connected to a power source, fingers should be | | | | them from being used by an unauthorized and |
| kept away from the on/off switch. | | | | incapable person. |
| 5. The right clothes: Long hair should be tied and | | | | 10. Lighting: It is important to use proper lighting |
| loose clothing should be avoided. Ideally, clothing | | | | while working with power tools, particularly when |
| that covers the entire body should be worn and | | | | working in the basement and garage where |
| heavy gloves should be used in order to avoid | | | | lighting may not be satisfactory. |