TERRAZZO TILE AND MARBLE ASSOCIATION OF CANADA
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Safety Feature: Hand Tools Masonry and allied crafts are called the “trowel trade.” But their tool box includes more than trowels. Like other construction workers they employ a wide array of hand and power tools – and, like other construction workers, they are exposed to a variety of tool-related hazards. Tool injuries range from bruises, cuts, and strains to broken bones and amputations. Some injuries permanently disable workers. Thanks to labour-management cooperation and safer working conditions, severe injuries are not as frequent as they once were. The overall incidence of tool injuries is still high, however, and a serious construction problem. Some injuries are the result of misusing or abusing tools. Others result from haste, using the wrong tool, inexperience, or lack of training. Tool accidents are seldom caused by circumstances beyond the user’s control. The user selects a tool, decides how it will be used, handles it before use, and directs it during use. In other words, the user is in nearly total control of the tool from start to finish. This makes tool users their own best protection against tool accidents. Common Causes of Tool Accidents The following are causes repeatedly mentioned in tool accident reports: * using the wrong tool for the job * using the proper tool incorrectly * using tools with damaged parts * tools falling from overhead * sharpened or pointed tools being carried in pockets * using cheaters on tool handles * excessive vibration * using tools with mushroomed striking surfaces * failure to support or clamp work in position * carrying tools by hand while climbing up or down ladders and scaffolding Underlying all of these causes are questions of training: * Was the worker trained to use the tool properly? * Was the user familiar with maintenance requirements? * Was the user shown how to inspect the tool? * Was the user familiar with the manufacturer’s manual? * Was the manual available to the worker? The last two questions apply more to power than hand tools. But the overall direction is clear. Workers must be trained to use tools correctly. 10 Basic Rules for Hand Tools 1) Learn from someone who knows how to use the tool safely and efficiently. 2) Check the tool before using it. 3) Wear the right personal protective equipment (PPE). Eye protection is a must when using any hand or power tool. Chips, flying particles, and dust are eye hazards commonly caused by tools. 4) Maintain tools in a good condition. Keep cutting tools sharp. Make sure that handles are secure. Follow maintenance schedules. 5) Tag any damaged unserviceable tool immediately and make sure it is out of use until restored or repaired. 6) Keep your work area clean. 7) Never engage in horseplay with tools. 8) Focus attention on your work and the tool you’re using. Stay alert to spot trouble before it can develop into an accident. 9) Inspect tools regularly. Store and handle tools in ways that will keep blades sharp, handles tight, edges free of cracks and chips, and moving parts in good working order. 10) Clean tools after using them and before putting them away. Lubricate where necessary to keep parts in working order and to prevent rust. Responsibility Responsibility for inspection is important. Under the Occupational Health and Safety Act, the supervisor is responsible for the overall safety of workers. In addition, the construction regulations require the supervisor to inspect all machinery and equipment to ensure that it does not endanger any worker. Does this mean that we rely on the supervisor to inspect tools? No. Tools must be checked by those who use them daily. Hand tools in heavy use and subject to considerable wear and tear should be inspected frequently and regularly. Items such as brick hammers, chisels, shovels, trowels, and brick tongs should be checked daily. Proper repair and maintenance requires the right facilities and equipment. A good workbench, repair tools, vises, and adequate lighting are necessities. Tools should be repaired by employees skilled in repair work or should be sent out for repairs to a qualified repair depot. |