Hammers, wrenches, chisels, pliers, screwdrivers, and many other hand tools have been utilized by Axcess Industries ever since the beginning. Since hand tools are so widely used by Axcess, they may appear to look quite harmless, but they are the cause of many injuries. In fact, an estimated of 8% of all workplace compensable injuries are caused by incidents associated with hand tools. Some of these injuries are very serious and can include the loss of fingers or even eyesight.
It is important to Safety Ed that you know many types of injuries that hand tools can cause.
- Cuts, abrasions, amputations, and punctures.
- Repetitive motion injuries.
- Eye injury.
- Broken bones and bruises.
Safety Ed wants to make sure that you know the proper safety procedures to avoid injures.
- Use the right tools for the job. For example, do not use a wrench as a hammer. Go back to the tool house and get the right tool for the job.
- Do not uses broken, damaged, dull, or worn-down tools.
-Remember when returning tools to shop that may have damage to tag them.
- Always cut in a direction away from your body.
- Make sure your grip and footing are secure when sing large tools
- Carry tools securely in a tool belt or box. If carrying tools up ladders use a hoist or rope.
- Keep close track of tools when working at heights.
- Pass a tool to another person by the handle; never toss it to them.
- Use the right personal protective equipment (PPE) for the job. Follow Axcess’s instructions for selecting and using safety eyewear, steel toed shoes, gloves, hard hats, etc.
- Never carry sharp or pointed tools in your pocket.
- Be on the lookout for signs of repetitive stress.
- Store tools properly when you stop work.
Just like Axcess Industries, if you follow these precautions, you can help prevent injuries and provide a better workplace for everyone. Just like Safety Ed always says: “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!”