General Hand Tool Operation

What are some basic tips when using hand tools?

administrative Make sure that employees are properly trained in the safe use of hand tools.
administrative Always provide training on how to choose the right tool for the job, how to correctly use each tool, and how to identify when tools need repair.
substitution Select the right tool for the job. Substitutes increase the chance of having an accident.
requirement Use tools designed to allow the wrist to stay straight. Avoid using hand tools with your wrist bent.
requirement Use good quality tools.
requirement Keep tools in good condition at all times.
administrative Inspect tools for defects before use. Replace or repair defective tools.
requirement Keep cutting tools sharp and cover sharp edges with a suitable covering to protect the tool and to prevent injuries from unintended contact.
requirement Replace cracked, splintered, or broken handles on files, hammers, screwdrivers, or sledges.
requirement Make sure that the handles of tools like hammers and axes fit tightly into the head of the tool.
requirement Replace worn jaws on wrenches, pipe tools and pliers.
requirement Redress burred or mushroomed heads of striking tools.
requirement Pull on a wrench or pliers. Never push unless you hold the tool with your palm open.
requirement Point sharp tools (e.g., saws, chisels, knives) laying on benches away from aisles, and handles should not extend over the edge of the bench top.
requirement Maintain tools carefully. Keep them clean and dry, and store them properly after each use.
requirement Carry tools in a sturdy toolbox to and from the worksite.
ppe Wear safety glasses or goggles, or a face shield (with safety glasses or goggles) and well-fitting gloves appropriate for the hazards to which you may be exposed when doing various tasks.
requirement Keep the work environment clean and tidy to avoid clutter, which may cause incidents.
requirement Use a heavy belt or apron and hang tools pointed down at your sides, not behind your back.
requirement Keep the work space tidy. Store tools properly when not in use.

What should I avoid when using hand tools?

requirement Do not use tools for jobs they are not intended to do. For example, do not use a slot screwdriver as a chisel, pry bar, wedge or punch, or wrenches as hammers.
requirement Do not apply excessive force or pressure on tools.
requirement Do not cut towards yourself when using cutting tools.
requirement Do not hold the stock in the palm of your hand when using a cutting tool or a screwdriver. Always lay it on a workbench or in a vice.
ppe Do not wear bulky gloves to operate hand tools.
requirement Do not throw tools. Hand them, handle first, directly to other workers.
requirement Do not carry tools in a way that interferes with using both hands on a ladder, while climbing on a structure, or when doing any hazardous work. If working on a ladder or scaffold, tools should be raised and lowered using a bucket and hand line.
requirement Do not carry a sharp tool in your pocket.
requirement Do not use tools during electrical work unless they are designed for electrical work (e.g., properly insulated).
requirement Do not leave tools lying around on elevated structures such as a platform or scaffold, as they may be bumped and fall.
requirement Fact sheet confirmed current: 2023-12-14