Power Tool Safety Smarts

U.S. construction work sites are becoming safer. The number of fatalities in construction fell 20% from 2007 to 2008, according to data compiled by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics. Despite the decline, contractors need to remain vigilant and continue to find ways to protect their workers from on-site accidents. One area that contractors could focus on is the improper use of power tools and the potentially serious consequences of their misuse. Whatever the power tool--a table saw, jack hammer or chain saw, for example--it can be helpful to keep reminding employees that care must always be taken when using them. Here are some points worth repeating.

Focus on the Basics

If you supply the equipment, you should confirm that the operators have read the manual and are familiar with all of a tool’s safety features. Consider having operators sign an acknowledgement to that effect. Anyone operating power tools should be required to wear the proper protective gear--safety glasses or goggles, ear plugs and non-slip steel-toed workboots. Operators should only use undamaged power tools that have insulating grips. Power cords must not be frayed or worn. Most workers know enough not to wear loose clothing or jewelry on the site, but it’s still worth reminding everyone how dangerous it can be if clothes or jewelry get caught in a tool’s moving parts.

Stay Alert

Familiarity can sometimes lead to complacency and unnecessary risk taking, and accidents may occur when operators don’t pay enough attention to their surroundings. Overhead electric lines and buried electric cables pose significant potential hazards to equipment operators. Operators should have sufficient space for the safe operation of their tools and should be able to work in areas free from flammable liquids or vapors. Just as importantly, operators need to be aware of other workers and construction vehicles operating in or near their own work area.

Work site safety is a continuing process, one that requires time and effort on the part of contractors. However, the payoff for this extra care and vigilance is a safe work environment and potentially lower insurance premiums.