Power tools can help you complete all kinds of projects, but many power tools can also cause severe injury if you’re not careful when you use them.

If you’re going to be working with power tools make sure you follow these safety guidelines:

  1. Use the right tool for the job

One of the most dangerous things you can do is try to use a power tool for something it wasn’t actually made to do. Make sure you’re always using the right tool for the job. If you don’t already have it, go out and buy it or borrow it from a friend. You’ll drastically reduce your risk of injury and also do a much better job.

  1. Read ALL of the instructions

People tend to skim through the introductions, focusing only on a few things like set up and clean up, but it’s important to read all the instructions and to actually absorb them. Even if you’ve used this kind of power tool before you should always read all of the instructions. Every model has different specifications and there are different risks associated with various types of tools.

  1. Keep fingers away from switches

Most tools are designed so it’s pretty difficult to accidentally turn them on, but it still happens from time to time and this can lead to property damage as well as injury. Make sure you keep your hands well away from the power button when you’re not actively using the tool and if the tool comes with a power lock make sure you always engage it when you’re done.

  1. Disconnect tools when not in use

Power tools should not be left plugged in when they’re not actually in use. This prevents them from turning on by accident. This is particularly important when you’re replacing parts and accessories. You don’t want your saw accidentally coming to life when you’re replacing the blade.

  1. Be careful with power cords

Power cords can be all kinds of dangerous. You want to keep them from stretching in areas where you regularly walk to avoid tripping and make sure you always unplug cords when you’re done with your tools. You should also wrap the cords carefully around the tools themselves so people won’t step on them or trip on them when tools aren’t in use. And it may seem obvious, but it’s worth saying that you should never carry a power tool by its cord.

  1. Inspect your power tools regularly

The tiniest amount of unnoticed damage can create big risks. One thing you want to pay special attention to is your power cord. The power cord is easily damaged when people step on it or if it is pulled too roughly out of a socket. You can cover small nicks in the cord with electrical tape, but any cord with deep grooves or cuts should be replaced. Safety guards should never have even the tiniest crack in them and should be replaced when they do.

  1. Wear the right clothes

Having the right clothes is just as important as having the right tool for the job. Clothes should be tight fitting and you might want to stay away from long sleeves altogether. Any dangling jewelry should be removed and long hair should always be tied back when working with power tools. Any of these things can get caught in your power tool, causing both injury and severe damage to the tool.

  1. Keep your work environment clean

Tripping over something when you’ve got a live power tool in your hand can be incredibly dangerous. Make sure to keep the floors clean and take particular care to remove anything large enough to trip over. There should be a lot of clear space around your work area, both on the floor and on any tables you’re working on, to avoid both property damage and injury.

  1. Use ear plugs

This might not matter so much if you’re only using a drill every once in a while but power tools are loud and if you’re using them regularly you need to be using ear plugs. Hearing loss is a very real possibility and this is particularly true when you’re working in an enclosed area because sound reverberates off of the ceiling and the walls. You can purchase re-usable earplugs designed specifically for musicians that sill allow you to hear.

  1. Wear goggles

Eye injuries are some of the most gruesome injuries people can get and just about anything can cause them. Even a tiny amount of sawdust in the eyes can be incredibly painful, and many power tools can cause larger objects to fly loose. Purchase a pair of impact-resistant safety glasses to keep your sight safe and make sure to replace them the moment you notice even a small crack.

This article was provided by Harry, who is the owner of the UK mitre saw reviews website, BestMitreSaw.co.uk

 

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