Power Tool Safety

Why it matters

Saws, grinders, nail guns, and drills do the work fast, and they do damage just as fast. Most power tool injuries come from a removed guard, a worn lead, or a moment of taking your attention off the cut. The tool does exactly what you tell it, including the things you did not mean.

Hazards

• ⚠ Removed or wedged-back guards
• ⚠ Damaged leads and no RCD protection
• ⚠ Kickback from saws and grinders
• ⚠ Loose clothing, gloves, or cords catching in moving parts
• ⚠ Nail gun discharge into a hand or bystander
• ⚠ Silica and timber dust from cutting

Controls and safe practices

• ✓ Apply the hierarchy of controls (reg 36): guards stay on, and pick the right tool for the job.
• ✓ Inspect the tool and lead before use; tag out anything damaged, and run off an RCD.
• ✓ Keep both hands on the tool, brace against kickback, and let the tool stop before you put it down.
• ✓ Sequential-trip nail guns, finger off the trigger until you are on the work.
• ✓ Control dust with extraction or water, and wear the right RPE (reg 44).
• ✓ No loose clothing or gloves near rotating parts, and keep bystanders clear.

Crew discussion questions

1. Are all the guards on the tools we are using today?
2. When were the leads last tested and tagged?
3. Which tools kick back, and how are we bracing for it?
4. How are we controlling the dust from cutting?

Applicable WHS citations

reg 36, reg 44

More toolbox talks

• Formwork and Concrete Pours
• Heat and Fatigue
• Ladder Safety
• Working at Heights
• Manual Handling and Your Back
• White Cards and Site Induction

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