Hand and Power Tools

Employees who use hand and power tools may face hazards from flying objects, dust, fumes, vapors, gases, sharp edges, and electrical sources. To reduce these risks, employees must use the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), receive training on safe tool use, and understand the hazards and precautions for each tool. Employers should also stay current on OSHA regulations and applicable state-specific safety requirements to ensure training programs, procedures, and workplace practices remain compliant and effective.

All electrical connections must match the tool and work conditions, especially in wet, dusty, or flammable environments. When temporary power is used, a ground-fault circuit interrupter should be used.

Five basic safety rules help prevent tool-related injuries:

• Keep all tools in good condition with regular maintenance.
• Use the right tool for the job.
• Examine each tool for damage before use and do not use damaged tools.
• Operate tools according to manufacturers’ instructions.
• Provide and properly use the right PPE.

Employees and employers should work together to establish safe procedures and report hazardous situations immediately so they can be corrected.

Hand tool hazards

Hand tools are powered manually and include items such as axes, wrenches, chisels, knives, and saws. The greatest hazards usually come from misuse, poor maintenance, or damaged tools.

Common examples include chisels used incorrectly, loose or cracked wooden handles, sprung wrench jaws, mushroomed impact heads, dull knives or scissors, and cracked saw blades.

Employers are responsible for keeping tools and equipment in safe condition and must not issue or allow the use of unsafe hand tools. Employees should be trained to inspect, use, and handle tools properly.

Workers should direct sharp tools away from aisles and nearby employees, keep knives and scissors sharp, remove cracked saw blades from service, and keep impact tools free of mushroomed heads.

In areas with flammable gases, volatile liquids, or explosive substances, spark-resistant tools made from nonferrous materials should be used because iron or steel tools may produce sparks.

Proper hand tool use:

• Inspect all tools prior to use. Any defective tools should be properly repaired or discarded.
• Use the proper tool for the job.
• Follow the manufacturers’ instructions regarding use.
• Ensure you are wearing the appropriate PPE, including eye protection.

Power tool hazards

Power tools are hazardous when used improperly and must be fitted with guards and safety switches. Common power sources include electric, pneumatic, liquid fuel, hydraulic, and power-actuated systems.

Workers should wear proper PPE, such as safety goggles and gloves, and keep floors clean and dry to prevent slips around power tools.

To reduce power tool hazards, workers should follow these precautions:

• Never carry a tool by the cord or hose, and never yank cords or hoses to disconnect them.
• Keep cords and hoses away from heat, oil, sharp edges, and work-area traffic.
• Disconnect tools before cleaning, servicing, storing, or changing accessories.
• Secure work with clamps or a vise and keep bystanders at a safe distance.
• Avoid accidental starting by keeping fingers off switches while carrying plugged-in tools.
• Maintain tools carefully, keep them sharp and clean, and follow the user’s manual for lubrication and accessory changes.
• Keep good footing, maintain balance, and wear proper apparel; loose clothing, ties, or jewelry can become caught in moving parts.
• Remove damaged portable electric tools from use and tag them “Do Not Use.”
  

Source:

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Power-operated hand tools. https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1926/1926.302. Accessed September 28, 2026.

5-R-1363