Purpose The purpose of this safety program is to aid business owners with their Federal OSHA compliance efforts. Each business is unique and each program will require customization. As the program is customized, remember to only include words, sections, concepts, procedures, etc. that are relevant to the operations. The purpose of any written safety program is to provide a clear and consistent plan for addressing safety in a particular area of focus. Use Use this wizard to customize your program Instructions To develop your customized plan, follow steps 1 through 3 in order, by clicking the buttons and following the instructions prompted by the program. Customize Review and Format Approve & Save

<CompanyName>

Hand & Power Tool Safety Program

Version <Version>

Updated: <Date>

Contents

1.	Program Purpose	3

2.	Definitions	3

3.	Responsibilities	3

4.	Guidelines/Procedures	3

5.	Personal Protective Equipment Guidelines	12

6.	Training	13

7.	References	14

Appendix I: Hand Tool Inspection Checklist	15

Appendix II: Power Tool and Extension Cord Inspection Checklist	16

Employee Acknowledgement	17

Program Purpose

The purpose of this guideline is to provide safe procedures for the use of hand and power tools. This program applies to <CompanyName> personnel who may be required to use hand or power tools for work activities.

Definitions

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) – A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) is a device to protect against electric shock should someone come in contact with a live wire and a path to ground which would result in a current through his/her body. The GFCI operates by sensing the difference between the currents in the hot and neutral conductors.

Hand Tool – A tool that is manually powered.

Power Tool – A tool that is powered electrically, pneumatically, hydraulically, or by liquid fuel. Power tools may be portable or permanently installed.

Responsibilities

<JobPosition1> is responsible for the overall implementation and execution of the program including the following responsibilities:

Providing appropriate training

Making required personal protective equipment available

Periodic review and updating of this program, as needed

Employees are responsible for complying with the requirements of this program, using required PPE properly, and following applicable safety procedures. All tools should be inspected periodically. Tools used regularly and/or for heavy duty tasks should be inspected weekly. Tools used less frequently and/or for lighter tasks should be inspected monthly. All inspections are to be documented on the appropriate tool checklist (see Appendix I & II).

Guidelines/Procedures

In general, employees will:

Be trained in the proper use of tools

Maintain tools in good, safe working condition

Use the right tool for the job

Inspect tools for damage/defects prior to use using the appropriate inspection checklist based on the type of hand tool being used

Immediately remove damaged/defective tools from service. Tag the damaged/defective equipment as such and cut power cord if it is not possible to lock out the controls

Verify that safety mechanism/guards are in place prior to use

Operate tools in accordance with manufacturers' instructions

Use required personal protective equipment properly

Hand Tools

Employees may be required to use a variety of hand tools, including but not limited to hammers, screwdrivers, machetes, and brush knives and box knives.

Cutting tools

Inspection

Handle (securely attached to blade, free of splintering or cracks)

Blade (sharp, free of nicks)

Use & handling

Cut away from oneself and other people

Cover cutting blades during transport

Do not carry unprotected cutting tools in pockets or backpacks

Store cutting tools with blade points/edge down

Impact tools

Inspection

Handle (securely attached to head, free of splintering or cracks)

Head (not mushroomed, free of cracks)

Use & handling

Keep hands and fingers clear of the strike area

Check that the swing is clear

Hand tools with special safety properties may be required in some situations.

Non-sparking hand tools in potentially flammable atmospheres

Electrically insulated tools when working on or near energized electrical equipment

Wrenches

Wrenches come in an endless variety of styles such as socket, open-end, combination, adjustable and torque, just to name a few. Wrenches are designed to turn or hold bolts, nuts or multiple-threaded fasteners. They are sized to keep the leverage and load in an acceptable balance.

Choose a wrench that properly fits the fastener you wish to turn. Use metric wrenches for metric bolts and American inch wrenches for inch-sized bolts. By using the correct size, the wrench is less prone to slip or round off the fastener corners.

Avoid using an extension to improve the leverage of a wrench.

Do not use open-end or adjustable wrenches for final tightening or loosening frozen fasteners. These wrenches do not have the strength of a box-end or socket wrench.

Apply penetrating oil on frozen fasteners before using a striking face box, socket or heavy-duty box wrench.

Do not expose a wrench to temperatures that could weaken tool hardness.

Always try to pull on a wrench (instead of pushing) in case the fastener loosens.

Adjustable wrenches must be adjusted tightly to the fasteners and then pulled, putting the force on the fixed end.

Turn power off and use electrically insulated wrenches when working on or around electrical components.

Never alter a wrench.

Do not over torque a fastener. Use a torque wrench to tighten the fastener to the exact torque required.

Inspect wrenches periodically for damage, such as cracking, severe wear or distortion.

Always use non-sparking wrenches when in the presence of flammable vapors or dusts.

Pliers

Pliers come in all shapes and sizes, such as lineman, diagonal cutting, needle nose, slip joint, locking tongue and groove. Plier uses include gripping, cutting, turning and bending. Pliers are a versatile tool but must be used according to how they are designed.

Do not increase a plier's handle length to gain more leverage, instead choose larger sized pliers.

Never subject pliers to temperatures that could decrease tool hardness.

Cut hardened wire only with pliers designed for that purpose.

Do not substitute a plier for a wrench when turning nuts and bolts.

Be sure the plier's jaws can grasp properly when bending rigid wire.

Do not hammer with pair of pliers.

Cut wire at right angles without bending wire back and forth against the cutting edge of a plier.

Always use non-sparking pliers when in the presence of flammable vapors or dusts.

Hammers and Striking Tools

Hammers are one of the most used tools and, unfortunately, one of the most abused tools in our toolboxes. Nail, soft-face, ball-peen, chipping, sledge and setting are just a few of the hammers we use in the workplace and home. Many hammer types are specific to a particular industry, such as bricklayers, machinists and loggers. Each kind of hammer has a head that is tailored to work best for a particular application. Recently, even hammer handles have been improved to be stronger, ergonomically shaped and transmit less shock to the user.

Always use a hammer of the proper weight and size for the task.

Do not strike the surface at an angle. The hammer face should contact the striking surface squarely, so the two are parallel.

Do not use a hammer if the handle is damaged or loose.

Use a hammer face that is 3/8" larger in diameter than the striking tool.

Never weld, heat or regrind a hammer head.

Remove from service any hammer exhibiting signs of excessive wear, cracks, mushrooming or chips.

Do not use one hammer to strike another.

Use the proper hammer for the job; match the proper type of hammer to the task it is designed to perform.

Always use non-sparking hammers in the presence of flammable vapors or dust.

Screwdrivers

Screwdrivers are intended for turning a variety of threaded fasteners, such as machine or wood screws, in or out of materials. Screwdriver tips come in a variety of different shapes and sizes. The slotted and Phillips ® tips are the most common, however, Torx, hex, square and various others are also used. As with any tool, it is important to match the type of screwdriver you use to the type of job you're doing.

Never use a screwdriver as a pry bar, chisel, punch, stirrer, or scraper.

Always use a screwdriver tip that properly fits the slot of the screw.

Throw away screwdrivers with broken or worn handles.

Never expose screwdrivers to temperatures that could reduce tip hardness.

Turn power off and use electrically insulated screwdrivers when working on or around electrical components.

Straighten tips or redress rounded edges with file.

Never use pliers on a screwdriver for extra leverage. Only use a wrench on screwdrivers specifically designed to accept them.

Use magnetic or screw-holding screwdrivers to start fasteners in tight areas.

Use both hands when using a screwdriver-one guides the tip and the other to turn the handle. Final tightening requires both hands on the screwdriver handle.

Always use non-sparking screwdrivers in the presence of flammable vapors or dusts.

The following is a list of hand tools being used at <CompanyName>:

List of Hand Tools
<HandTool1>
<HandTool2>
<HandTool3>
<HandTool4>
<HandTool5>
<HandTool6>
<HandTool7>
<HandTool8>
<HandTool9>
<HandTool10>

Electric Power Tools

Portable Electric Power Tools

Portable electric power tools must be double insulated or grounded. Only power tools approved by an accredited testing laboratory such as UL, ETL, or CSA are permitted. Equipment that is does not meet these requirements must be tagged as such with the controls locked – if it is not possible to lock out the controls, the power cord to this equipment must be cut.

Inspection

The housing, power cords, and plugs of portable power tools will be inspected for damage prior to use. Damaged or defective power tools will be removed from service immediately and disposed of or repaired, as appropriate. Tag the damaged/defective equipment as such and cut power cord if it is not possible to lock out the controls.

Housings will be inspected for cracks, holes, or other damage.

Power cords for loose parts, damaged plugs including missing ground pins, damaged insulation, and pinched or crushed outer jacket which may indicate internal damage.

Maintenance and Servicing

If equipment is found to be defective or damaged, it should be tagged as out of service and not used until repaired or replaced. Repair and maintenance of portable electric power tools will be conducted by <JobPosition2>.

Use & Handling

Power cords will be handled to prevent damage during use, transportation, or storage.

Power cords are not to be used for raising, lowering or carrying equipment or tools.

Do not secure cords with staples or by any means that may result in damage to the cord.

Do not run cords in areas with pedestrian or vehicle traffic, across or through doorways, under carpets, or through windows. If cords must be placed in any of these locations, they must be protected from damage with an appropriate cord runner or other safety device.

Do not knot, crush, or kink cords.

Do not place cords in contact with hot or sharp objects.

When equipment is in use, cords should not be covered, coiled, or compressed in any way.

Disconnect equipment by grasping and pulling the plug, not the cord.

Prior to connection, check power cord plugs and receptacles to confirm compatibility. Incompatible plugs and receptacles will not be connected. Altering incompatible plugs (e.g. removing ground pins) or receptacles or using adapters is strictly prohibited.

Power tools and extension cords used in wet areas must be approved for use in those locations and must have GFCI protection.

Workers’ hands should be dry when connecting or disconnecting power tools.

The following is a list of portable electric power tools being used at <CompanyName>:

List of Portable Electric Power Tools
<PortablePowerTool1>
<PortablePowerTool2>
<PortablePowerTool3>
<PortablePowerTool4>
<PortablePowerTool5>
<PortablePowerTool6>
<PortablePowerTool7>
<PortablePowerTool8>
<PortablePowerTool9>
<PortablePowerTool10>

Permanently Wired Electric Power Tools

Electric power tools that are permanently wired are typically used for routine industrial tasks. This may include but are not limited to:

Lamps and measuring instruments

Drill presses

Connecting equipment and tools to power mains must be performed by a licensed and qualified electrician

Maintenance and Servicing

Permanently wired equipment and tools will be inspected prior to use. If equipment is found to be defective or damaged, it should be tagged as out of service and not used until repaired or replaced. Repair and maintenance of permanently wired electrical power tools will be conducted by <JobPosition3>.

The following is a list of permanently wired equipment being used at <CompanyName>:

List of Permanently Wired Electric Power Tools
<WiredPowerTool1>
<WiredPowerTool2>
<WiredPowerTool3>
<WiredPowerTool4>
<WiredPowerTool5>
<WiredPowerTool6>
<WiredPowerTool7>
<WiredPowerTool8>
<WiredPowerTool9>
<WiredPowerTool10>

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs)

GFCIs are required when power tools are operated:

Within three feet of a water source or in wet conditions

Connected to extension cords

Used outdoors

GFCI equipment will be tested on a periodic basis (i.e. monthly) and replaced if defective.

Gasoline Powered Tools

Gasoline powered tools may include brush clearing and demolition equipment (chainsaws, jackhammers.) Some gas powered tools use gasoline while others use a gasoline/oil mixture. Consult the manufacturer for fuel requirements prior to fueling.

Gas powered tools should be used in well ventilated areas only due to potential buildup of exhaust gases (i.e. carbon monoxide). If a gas powered tool must be used in an enclosed space, air monitoring and/or respiratory protection may be required.

Prior to making adjustments, cleaning, or performing maintenance or repairs, gas powered tools will be powered off.

Gas powered tools can generate a high level of noise. Hearing protection should be worn when operating these tools.

Gas powered tools often vibrate, which can lead to injury over time. To minimize vibration exposure, tools with the following features should be selected and used:

Choose tools with effective, proven anti-vibration features

Keep tools properly maintained

Limit the amount of time using the tool

Take frequent breaks

Grip the handles only as tightly as necessary to control the tool

Avoid using tools on the highest speed or throttle

Maintenance and Servicing

If equipment is found to be defective or damaged, it should be tagged as out of service and not used until repaired or replaced. Repair and maintenance of gasoline powered tools will be conducted by <JobPosition4>.

The following is a list of gasoline powered tools being used at <CompanyName>:

List of Gasoline Powered Tools
<GasPowerTool1>
<GasPowerTool2>
<GasPowerTool3>
<GasPowerTool4>
<GasPowerTool5>
<GasPowerTool6>
<GasPowerTool7>
<GasPowerTool8>
<GasPowerTool9>
<GasPowerTool10>

Fuel Storage and Handling

Gasoline will be stored in approved containers and will be handled and transported according to proper procedures for flammable liquids. Containers should be equipped with a funnel or flexible hose for fueling operations.

Fueling operations will be conducted in well ventilated areas at least 10 feet from any source of ignition. Smoking is prohibited during fueling operations.

During fueling operations, gasoline power tools will be:

Powered off and cool

Properly grounded and bonded to the fuel container

After fueling is completed, wipe any spilled fuel from the tool. Move to a different location prior to starting the tool.

Personal Protective Equipment Guidelines

Hand Tool PPE Guidelines

The type of personal protective equipment (PPE) you need when using hand tools depends on the tool being used. At a minimum, eye protection in the form of safety glasses or goggles must be worn. The simple act of snipping copper wire with a side-cutting plier, striking a nail with a hammer or sawing wood can propel small pieces of debris.

It is also important to protect your hands from cuts, abrasion and repeated impact. Cut-resistant gloves made of Kevlar ®, Spectra ®, or stainless steel can help protect against the effects of a misplaced blade. Wearing standard cotton or leather gloves can help prevent wood splinters or skin abrasions from handling lumber. On jobs that require long periods of hammering, impact-resistant gloves with gel or rubber palms can reduce vibration.

Safety shoes with a reinforced toe can help protect your feet from injury caused by a dropped tool. Choose footwear that offers adequate traction for your work.

Power Tool PPE Guidelines

Power tools present more hazards than hand tools due to the speed at which they operate. Although similarities exist, there are distinct differences between the PPE suggested for use with hand tools and the PPE recommended for safe power tool use.

Eye protection, such as safety glasses or goggles, is especially important when using power tools. The speed in which drills, saws, grinders, sanders and routers operate can propel small particles much faster and farther than do hand tools. Others working around the area where power tools are used should also wear protective eyewear. Certain power tools may require using a face shield, in addition to safety glasses or goggles. For example, a face shield is recommended while using a grinder, due to the amount of hot metal particles generated.

Standard cotton or leather work gloves can protect your hands from minor scrapes and cuts while working with various materials. Unfortunately, cut-resistant gloves are not designed for, or even capable of, providing protection against a moving blade or bit. The best way to prevent injury from moving parts is to keep your hands on the tool's handles and keep guards in place. Anti-vibration gloves minimize the vibration created by hammer drills and rotary hammer drills.

Safety footwear is recommended when using power tools because power tools are heavy and they can cut. Safety shoes with a slip resistant, insulated sole and a steel toe protect against dropped objects and electricity.

The higher sound levels generated by some power tools may require the use of earplugs or earmuffs. A respirator may be necessary during sanding and cutting operations. Each situation must be analyzed to determine the type of PPE that is required for the safe use of each type of power tool.

Along with PPE, proper attire is also important when using power tools. To avoid injury due to moving parts, avoid loose clothing, secure or cover long hair, and remove jewelry as appropriate.

The following is a list of PPE available to employees working with hand and power tools:

Type of PPE	Protection Type
<PPEType1>	<ProtectionType1>
<PPEType2>	<ProtectionType2>
<PPEType3>	<ProtectionType3>
<PPEType4>	<ProtectionType4>
<PPEType5>	<ProtectionType5>
<PPEType6>	<ProtectionType6>
<PPEType7>	<ProtectionType7>
<PPEType8>	<ProtectionType8>
<PPEType9>	<ProtectionType9>
<PPEType10>	<ProtectionType10>

Training

Employees who use hand and/or power tools will receive training in their proper use. The training will include PPE requirements, inspection procedures, safe use and procedure for removing a tool from service.

References

OSHA 29 CFR 1910, Subpart P

OSHA 29 CFR 1926, Subpart I

Appendix I: Hand Tool Inspection Checklist

Hand Tool Inspection Checklist
Location:
Date:	Inspector:
Tool Information
ID:	Type:
Manufacturer:	Model:
Instructions: Hand tools should be inspected periodically. Hand tools used regularly and/or for heavy duty tasks should be inspected weekly. Tools used less frequently and/or for lighter tasks should be inspected monthly. For each applicable item below, check the condition of the tool and mark the appropriate box. If a tool is damaged, tag it as out of service and remove it from use. These requirements apply to both power tools provided by the employer and to employee-owned tools.
Hand Tools	Yes	No	N/A
Is tool in good condition?
Are tool handles appropriate, in good condition, free of splinters or cracks, and fixed tightly to the tool?
Are cutting edges sharp and in good condition?
Are impact tools (hammers, chisels, punches, etc.) free of mushroomed and cracked heads?
Do moving parts operate properly?
Are tools free of damage, including cracks, severe wear, and distortion?
Are non-sparking tools used in potentially flammable atmospheres?
Are electrically insulated tools used when working on or near energized electrical equipment?
Comments/Notes:

Appendix II: Power Tool and Extension Cord Inspection Checklist

Power Tool & Extension Cord Inspection Checklist
Date:	Inspector:
Tool Information
ID:	Manufacturer:	Model:
Type:
Power Source:	Cord	Battery	Other:
Instructions: For each applicable item below, check the condition of the tool and mark the appropriate box. If a tool is damaged, tag it as out of service and remove it from use. These requirements apply to both power tools provided by the employer and to employee-owned tools
Power Tools	Yes	No	N/A
Is the tool UL listed?
Is the tool either double insulated or grounded?
Is the tool approved for use in hazardous atmospheres?
If used in damp or wet area or outside, is the tool connected to a GFCI circuit?
If the tool can be equipped with safety guards, are they in place and functioning properly?
Are the cord and plug intact and in good condition and free of exposed or frayed insulation?
Is the tool housing free of cracks or other visible defects?
Are controls located to minimize accidental operation?
Is the tool equipped with a constant pressure switch/control or a positive “on-off” control?
If tool is equipped with a safety switch, is it functioning properly?
Are blades/bits/wheels/accessories in good condition and free of cracks, chips or other damage?
Extension Cords	Yes	No	N/A
Is the cord UL listed?
Is the cord grounded (three pronged plug and outlet)?
Is the cord in good condition and free of exposed or frayed insulation?
Is the cord’s plug intact (no missing or damaged pins)?
If used in damp or wet areas or outside, is the cord GFCI protected?
Is the cord properly rated for its intended use?
Comments/Notes:

Employee Acknowledgement

I have received information on <CompanyName>’s Hand & Power Tool Safety Program. By signing below, I agree to abide by the procedures in this document and bring to the attention of my supervisor any questions or concerns had.
Employee Name: _________________________________
Employee Signature: ______________________________
Date: __________________________________________