When it comes to working with power tools, the risk of accidents should be taken seriously. Thousands of accidents occur every year with power tools, and some of them are ultimately fatal.
The body part most affected by the common power tool is the index finger. This can be a minor cut, if you’re lucky, or as serious as a severed finger. No matter how many safety precautions the manufacturers take, you will probably suffer an index finger injury at least once if you use power tools very often.
Saws are the power tool that causes the most accidents; they are extremely sharp and even minor injuries are common when they are operated. Many users are lulled into a sense of complacency, become careless and then find themselves being stitched up-or worse-in the emergency room.
The cords to power tools are the second most common factor in accidents. Although cordless power tools are more common now, many people prefer not to be interrupted by low batteries and some prefer the tools they’ve used for years to new ones. You should always inspect a cord at least once per month to be sure it is not frayed and the plug is in good condition. Frayed cords have caused nasty shocks and even electrocution. Cords should be kept away from any surface that is damp or wet and drinks should be kept well away from the work area. Tripping over cords has caused many injuries, too, especially after the tool has been turned off and laid aside.
You can prevent accidents and injuries by taking a few common sense precautions. The most important factor is your own awareness. No matter how often you’ve used that particular power tool, ask yourself if you remember all the safety precautions that were in the operator’s manual. If not, it’s time to go over it once more. We often find things we’ve forgotten and some that we shouldn’t have! Never assume that you can’t be injured just because you’ve been using that type of tool for years. In fact, that’s when many injuries occur.
The environment you’re working in is also a big contributor to injury. Are there materials strewn about the floor? Are there items stacked up that could fall over and distract you? Be sure that the surface you’ll be standing on is completely dry and smooth with nothing for you to trip over or slip upon. If you are working in an unfamiliar area, take a few moments to look around and know where everything is, removing potential hazards.
You should not be scared of power tools but you should definitely respect their ability to quickly injure your body. Without power tools we would not be able to do half the things we are now able to do for ourselves at home or build homes and offices so quickly. They are very convenient and have become affordable for everyone. Ironically, their very accessibility has increased the number of injuries attributed to power tools in the past few years.
Remember that you should always respect your tools—you can enjoy your work but you should always show them respect. The moment that you become blasé about working with them, you are an accident waiting to happen. Wear eye protection every time you use a power tool, take care and that guards are in place before you turn it on and never work with a power tool unless there is someone readily available to help if you should be injured.
