Using Power Tools Toolbox Talk

Before the Toolbox Talk

This safety talk is designed for discussion leaders to use in preparing safety meetings. Set a specific time and date for your safety meeting. Publicize your meeting so everyone involved will be sure to attend. Review this safety talk before the meeting and become familiar with its content.
Make notes about the points made in this talk that pertain to your workplace. You should be able to present the material in your own words and lead the discussion without reading it.
Seating space is not absolutely necessary, but arrangements should be made so that those attending can easily see and hear the presentation. Collect whatever materials and props you will need ahead of time. Try to use equipment in your workplace to demonstrate your points.
Give the safety talk in your own words. Use the printed talk merely as a guide. The purpose of a safety meeting is to initiate a discussion of safety problems and provide solutions to those problems. Encourage employees to discuss hazards or potential hazards they encounter on the job. Ask them to suggest ways to improve safety in their area. Don’t let the meeting turn into a gripe session about unrelated topics. As a discussion leader, it’s your job to make sure the topic is safe. Discussing other topics wastes time and can ruin the effectiveness of your safety meeting.

Toolbox Talk: Using Power Tools

Power tools are a plus in almost every phase of work, providing increased speed, accuracy, and output. However, safety hazards can also accompany these tools, which can result in serious injuries if the proper precautions are not followed.
With the ever-present threat of electric shock, it is important to round all electrical equipment or use double-insulated equipment. Have an electrician check the equipment periodically to determine if the ground is effective. If you discover a defect in a tool, report it to your supervisor immediately so the problem can be corrected. Remember, never try to repair power tools while they are connected to the power supply. Rotating pneumatic equipment should be checked for the proper functioning of governors.

Mobile Equipment

It is also important to inspect the steering, brakes, and safety devices of mobile equipment. The equipment should be kept properly lubricated. Good vision is essential if you operate mobile equipment. Always check the clearance before driving equipment through an underpass; the clearance limit should be posted on the equipment. Wheel chocks must be used on grades. Remove the ignition-lock keys when you are not using the equipment. Store equipment and accessories properly and in the designated area.

Air Powered Tools

If you work with air power tools, you should be familiar with the dangers associated with the tools. Before using an air power tool check all fittings for proper connections and an air tool retainer device. Blow out the air tool lines to remove moisture and dirt before you connect the air tool. Control triggers should be inside, not outside, the handle. When changing air tools, close the stop valve in the airline; never kink the hose to save steps or time. When not in use, turn off the valve on the line feeding the tool and bleed the line.

Power Lawn Mowers

When used improperly, a power lawnmower can cause serious injuries. It is safe only when handled by a capable operator who has a full understanding and respect for its dangers. A mower rotary blade whirls between 2,000 or 4,000 revolutions per minute, causing the blade tip of an average 20-inch mower to move at a speed of 100 to 200 miles per hour. Because of this, mowers should be operated at reduced speeds whenever possible.
For your safety, always wear protective, tight-fitting clothing. Before mowing, carefully inspect the lawn for debris. When starting the mower, stand firmly with your feet in a safe position away from the blade, and have self-propelled mowers out of gear. Gas tanks should be refilled outside. Never fill them to the top of the tank or while the engine is hot, because this could cause a fire or explosion. Store gasoline in an approved, properly labeled container.
While mowing, stay in step with the mower, keeping all guards and safety shields in place. If you happen to fall, push the mower away from you–don’t pull it. Never use an electric mower on wet grass and make sure the power cord is safe and the motor is grounded. If using a riding mower, keep your feet on the footrests. Remember that the mower can tip over easily. It’s also important to know how to quickly disengage the clutch and stop the engine.
You should also follow routine maintenance procedures to keep your mower in good repair. When working on the underside of a mower, disconnect the spark or electric plug. Always turn the motor completely off to remove a foreign object or whenever you leave the mower temporarily. It’s also a good idea to keep children and pets away from where you are working. For your safety, don’t overexert yourself. Take rest periods to help prevent accidents.

Interactive Discussion

1. Have you or someone you know been injured or nearly injured while carrying out this activity? What happened?

2. How can we stay safe today?

3. What do we do at the worksite to prevent injuries related to this activity?

After the Toolbox Talk

At the end of the meeting, ask employees to sign a sheet on the back of this talk as a record that they attended the safety meeting. Keep this talk on file for your records.

References

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