Powered Hand Tools - Powder-Actuated Tools

What general safety principles should you follow when using powder-actuated tools?

Check the health and safety legislation in your jurisdiction for specific requirements related to the powder-actuated tools.

• context Allow only trained, competent, and authorized persons who are familiar with the regulations and safe work procedures covering the use of the tool to operate powder-actuated tools (also known as explosive-actuated fastening tools).
• context Powder-actuated tools operate like loaded guns. Handle powder-actuated tools with the same respect and safety precautions as guns.
• context Use the manufacturer's information as a guide for the safe operation and maintenance of the tool.
• context Wear safety glasses or goggles, or a face shield (with safety glasses or goggles) and a hard hat.
• context Wear hearing protection.
• context Always brace yourself when working on ladders or scaffolds to maintain good balance.
• context Keep tools pointed in a safe direction. Never point powder-actuated tools at anyone.
• context Load powder-actuated tools just before use. Do not carry loaded tools from job to job.
• context Do not leave loaded powder-actuated tools unattended.
• context Do not allow bystanders near the work. Shields for protecting workers against a possible ricochet may be necessary in the working area.

How should you care for and service a powder-actuated tool?

• context Clean and maintain tools according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• context Check tools before use to ensure they are in good working order.
• context Tag defective tools "Out of service" and remove from service until properly repaired.
• context Store tools and cartridges in a locked container when they are not in use. Ensure that the tool is unloaded before storing it.

How should you use a powder-actuated tool safely?

• context Use the tool at right angles to the work surface.
• context Check the chamber to see that the barrel is clean and free from any obstruction, before using the tool.
• context Do not use the tool where flammable or explosive vapours, dust or similar substances are present.
• context Do not place your hand over the front (muzzle) end of a loaded tool.

How should you safely use the projectiles (fasteners, nails, studs, etc.)?

• context Use only the projectiles (fasteners, nails, studs, etc.) recommended by the tool manufacturer.
• context Ensure that the base material has no holes or openings and is consistent enough to prevent a projectile from passing right through.
• context Do not load a tool until immediately before use.
• context Do not force a projectile into a working surface that is harder than the projectile being used. If the base material is unknown, use a hand hammer to drive the projectile, using it as a centre punch.

How should you use charge cartridges safely?

• context Use only cartridges recommended by the tool manufacturer.
• context Check that the colour of the cartridge is appropriate for the work being done. Charge cartridges are colour-coded to show their strength.
• context Conduct a trial first by using the weakest or lowest strength charge cartridge.
• context Provide adequate ventilation in confined spaces where powder-actuated tools are used.
• context Hold the tool in the fixing position for at least 5 to 15 seconds when a tool misfires. Keep the tool pointed in a direction that will not cause injury to you or others and unload a cartridge with extreme caution.
• context Use caution when using tools near live electrical circuits. Make sure that the projectile (nail, stud, etc.) do do not enter live circuits buried or hidden in the base material.
• context Keep cartridges locked up when not in use.
• context Do not attempt to force a cartridge into a tool.
• context Do not discard unfired cartridges carelessly.
• context Keep misfired cartridges in water-filled containers until they are properly disposed
• context Do not carry cartridges loose or in a pocket. Carry them in the manufacturer's package.