About this Hand Tools Safety Toolbox Talk
This hand tools safety toolbox talk provides practical guidance on the selection, use and maintenance of portable electric, pneumatic, hydraulic, physical or fuel-driven tools.
The hazards and risks of a hand tool are often easily overlooked, as many of the tools are common and frequently used however, they have the potential to cause severe injuries when not used or maintained properly.
Hand Tool Safety
Hand tools and equipment are one of the most common ways we get injured at work. Injuries from hand tools can range from cuts and bruises and splinters to more serious injuries like amputations and crush injuries. To help prevent these injuries, it’s important to use the right tool for the job and to always wear the necessary personal protective equipment.
General Safe Use of Hand Tools
The following safety requirements should be followed when using hand tools:
- Always procure the most appropriate tool for the tasks, with consideration to vibration and noise exposure levels.
- Always ensure all hand and power tools are in good condition and comply with the relevant Standard.
- The equipment must be maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions so it is safe for the user.
- The tool must only be used for the task that it is designed and in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Periodic inspections of hand tools must be undertaken according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- All guards, handles and other safety devices must be attached and operable before use to enable safe work practices.
- Discs, blades and fittings must be within the permissible operating speed in revolutions per minute (RPM).
- Workers must not wear loose clothing or jewelry and must securely tie back long hair so that they cannot become caught in a moving part of the tool.
- Workers must wear safety glasses when using impact tools where there is a risk of splinter or cracks.
- Wearing gloves when using hand tools must be based on risk assessment.
- Personnel must familiarise themselves with the tools they will be using and follow all warnings, cautions, safety messages and procedures before commencing work.
- All vibration or noise risks must be identified, assessed and controlled.
- Hand tools must not be modified unless a risk assessment has been undertaken and any necessary approvals granted.
- Box cutter-type knives (Stanley knives) should be retractable and the appropriate PPE must be worn, e.g. cut-resistant (Kevlar) gloves.
- Racks, shelves or toolboxes must be provided for storing tools that are not in use.
Why Become a Member of Redcat Safety and Download this Hand Tools Safety Toolbox Talk?
- Toolbox talks on hand tools safety raise awareness about the potential hazards associated with hand tool use in the workplace and encourage workers to always use tools properly.
- Employees gain a better understanding of the risks, including cuts, abrasions, punctures, and strains and how to mitigate them.
After downloading this hand tools safety toolbox talk you will be able to:
- Very easily edit and customize the template to create your own hand tools safety toolbox talk.
- Apply your own style, format and brand to the toolbox talk.
- Use it in any industry or sector regardless of size or type of organization.
Availability and Use of this Hand Tools Safety Toolbox Talk
- This hand tools safety toolbox talk template is accessible to you right now by clicking the ‘Become a Member Now’ button.
- The toolbox talk will be delivered to you in fully editable Microsoft Word format for immediate and full use in your business.
- There are no membership auto-renewals, contracts or ongoing costs.
If you can find HSEQ resources that are of better value than what your Redcat Safety Membership offers, we will REFUND YOU double the cost of your membership.