Hand-Held Tool Safety

TM

Toolbox Talks are intended to facilitate health and safety discussions on the job site. For additional Toolbox Talks, please visit SAFETY.CAT.COM

Discussion Date:

TOPIC: Hand-Held Tool Safety

Employee Participants:
General Information Hand-held tool safety practices should be followed to reduce serious and disabling injuries in the workplace. There are two primary categories of hazards when using hand-held tools: Correct Tool for the Job: Most accidents occur in the workplace due to the use of incorrect hand-held tools to perform work. Defective Tools: Defective hand-held tools can cause serious injuries. Hand-Held tools can be used safely if you follow these guidelines: ALWAYS inspect hand-held tools prior to use. Make sure to remove any defective tool from service. Select the correct tool for the job. DO NOT use a tool for anything other than its intended purpose. If you see a co-worker using a hand-tool incorrectly, STOP them and suggest the correct method.

Questions to Generate Discussion What are some common hand-held tool misuses in the workplace? Why is it important to inspect the hand-held tools prior to use? What are some common hand-held tool defects that you may find in the workplace?

______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________
The material in this document is provided for informational purposes only and not as a comprehensive or exhaustive resource on this topic. This material has been compiled from a multitude of sources believed to be accurate; however, Caterpillar Inc. assumes no responsibility for the accuracy or currency of this information and encourages you to consult experts in this area for more information. In no event does the content of this document supersede any applicable local, state, or federal statutes or regulations.

Control ID: V1010.1

SAFETY.CAT.COM
http://safety.cat.com/toolbox
CAT, CATERPILLAR, their respective logos, Caterpillar Yellow and the POWER EDGE trade dress, as well as corporate and product identity used herein, are trademarks of Caterpillar and may not be used without permission. 2009 Caterpillar All Rights Reserved