| Purpose |
To outline the safe work practices required to safely use non-powered hand tools during the construction of wood-frame homes. |
| Definition |
A tool held in the hand and operated without electricity or other power. |
| Hazards
This list of potential hazards is not comprehensive. Workers are required to complete a Hazard Assessment prior to starting this task to ensure all hazards are identified and controlled.
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Physical:
- Flying debris
- Cuts/Lacerations
- Abrasions
- Punctures
- Strain/Sprain
- Struck by injuries
- Electric shock (if using tools near live electrical components)
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| Controls |
Administrative:
- Pre-use inspection
- Pre-job preparation – ensure you have the proper tool for the job
- SWP – Defective Tools
Personal Protective Equipment:
- Basic PPE: CSA/ANSI approved safety footwear
- Task-Specific PPE: Safety glasses, face protection, and gloves
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| Work Site Supervisory Responsibility |
Do
- Ensure that Workers have received training in the use of the hand tool(s).
- Ensure each tool is used for its designed purpose.
- Include hand tools in your Construction Inspection scope.
- Immediately remove all defective tools from site.
- Enforce the use of adequate PPE when Workers are using hand tools.
- Rotate Workers and/or provide breaks to avoid repetitive strain injuries.
Do not
- Allow Workers to use tools for purposes other than their intended use.
- Allow Workers to use broken or damaged tools.
- Allow Workers to use tools without proper PPE.
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| Worker Responsibility |
Do
- Use/select the proper tool for the job. Inspect hand tools for damage prior to use.
- Remove from site all defective tools; discard or tag for repairs following Defective Tools SWP.
- Wear the proper PPE for the tool and task being performed.
- Work cutting tools away from the body. Hands should be kept behind the tools.
- Keep cutting tools sharp.
- Retractable knives should be stored retracted when not in use.
- Clean all hand tools after use and make any repairs before storing.
Do not
- Carry tools such as knives, chisels or screwdrivers in pockets, as a fall onto these tools could cause a serious injury or puncture wound.
- Carry tools in hand when climbing/descending ladders.
- Throw or toss tools to another Worker.
- Leave tools on elevated surfaces where they could potentially fall.
- Use un-insulated tools around live wires.
- Use tools for anything but their intended purpose.
- Use tools that are compromised in anyway (dirty, broken, etc.).
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