Hand Tools Bundaberg

We always recommend training for yourself or your employees in the safe use of hand tools. This training might involve knowing how to choose the best tool for the job, how to use your tools safely, and how to determine when a tool needs to be repaired.

It’s important you always use the right tool for the job. You might be tempted to use a screw driver in place of a chisel, or a wrench instead of a hammer, but this is a recipe for disaster. Not only will you run the risk of damaging your tools, you’ll also greatly increase the chance of having an accident. Cutting tools should be kept sharp and covered to maintain their quality and to keep you safe. Keep all your tools clean, dry, and safely stored between each use to help them last as long as possible.

We always recommend checking your tools before each use to make sure they’re safe. Any defects, such as cracked or broken handles or worn blades and jaws, need to be addressed as soon as you notice them. If your tool is damaged or defective, it’s crucial you arrange a repair or have it replaced if repairs will be too costly or time-consuming.

There are some simple techniques you can follow to minimise the risk of injury and maintain comfort while at work:

• Use tools that allow your wrist to stay straight; never bend your wrist while using hand tools
• Never push on your wrench or pliers, unless you are holding the tool with an open palm
• Don’t use excessive force. If the tool isn’t doing the job, there may be a problem
• When using cutting tools, always point the blade away from yourself
• When using a cutting tool or a screwdriver, never hold the stock; always place it on your workbench or keep it in a vice
• If you place a point sharp tool, such as a saw or knife, on a bench, make sure it is kept away from walkways and its handle does not extend over the benchtop edge
• Never throw tools. It might sound obvious, but injuries do occur from workers throwing implements to one another. Hand them, handle first, to others working on site
• Never place sharp tools in your pocket
• Maintain a clean and tidy work environment to minimise the risk of accidents

Your safety gear will depend on the work you’re doing and the hazards you might be exposed to. Attire might include safety glasses or goggles, a face shield, well-fitting gloves, a heavy apron or tool belt.

If you need to climb or do any hazardous work, it’s important you keep your hands free to stay as safe as possible. When working on a ladder or scaffold, raise and lower your hand tools using a bucket and hand line.

When doing electrical work, it’s crucial you use hand tools that are designed for this use. Such tools will be properly insulated, so that you will be protected in the event of a power surge or any other electrical fault.