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Hand Tool Hazards and Protection Usually, hand and power tool hazards are caused through misuse and improper maintenance. You should remember the following when handling such tools: Do not use wrenches when their jaws are sprung; Never use impact tools, such as chisels and wedges, when their heads have mushroomed; Tools with loose, cracked or splintered handles should never be used You must never use a screwdriver as a chisel; Tools with taped handles should be checked first for any hidden cracks; Use Personal Protective Equipment, such as safety goggles and gloves; Keep floor surface where working free from debris and tripping or slipping hazards; Keep cutting tools sharp. Power Tool Hazards and Precautions Power tools could be extremely hazardous when used improperly. They must always be fitted with guards and safety switches. Here are some precautions you should take while handling such tools: Remember to disconnect all tools when they are not in use and also when their accessories are changed; Before servicing and cleaning all tools must be disconnected from the power source; People that are not involved with the work must be kept away from the work; Never hold the switch button while carrying a plugged-in tool; Before starting to work, make sure both your hands are free to operate the tool. You can do this by securing your work with clamps or a vice; Do not wear loose clothing and jewelry that can get caught in moving parts; Damaged electric tools must be removed and tagged with the words: ?Do Not Use?; Portable tools should never be carried by their cord; Electric cords must not be used to hoist or lower tools; All cords and hoses must be kept away from oil, heat and sharp edges at all times. Remember, it can only take one mistake! So be sensible and stay safe. Doing a Home Improvement Project Yourself – Yes or No? Hank Jaworowski After you have defined your home improvement project, the thought of doing the project by yourself or with a “HANDY” friend or neighbor may cross your mind. DO-IT-YOURSELF projects are a popular trend in the Home Improvement Industry. However, before you put on your tool belt, you should look at all aspects of your project and ask yourself the following 10 questions. 1) Do you have reliable work habits? Do you tend to stress out easily, lose your temper, or become confused under pressure? Will you have the patience and persistence to complete the project in a timely fashion? What will happen if it is not completed in a timely fashion? 2) What will you do if your project goes awry? Remember most contractors are wary about completing and/or redoing someone else's mistakes, including yours. 3) Are you attempting to do the project yourself for financial reasons? If so, have you looked at the entire cost, including the cost of materials, your time, and the tools you may need to purchase, and then possibly never use again? 4) What happens if you make a mistake and have to spend more time and effort to correct it? How much money are you really going to save then? 5) Do you know all the construction steps involved in the project? For most projects this is not the time to be using an installation manual. 6) How many projects of this type have you done? I hope at least 1 project. 7) Do you have the skills to complete this project? For most projects this is not the time for on-the-job training. 8) Is it safe for you to do the project? Some projects can cause serious injury or be fatal if proper precautions are not taken. 9) Are you familiar with the local building codes and permit requirements? If you do not follow the building code you may be forced to tear down the project and rebuild it to meet the proper code specifications. 10) Do you have the time to do the project? If your answers to these 10 questions still leave you feeling comfortable about doing your project, than I would say go ahead! However, if time is of the essence, it normally takes a “Do-it-yourself” project longer to complete because most people are not familiar with all the “nuances” that one would learn from doing the project more than once. Think long and hard about doing a project yourself, especially if it is a large project. Large projects require more time and effort and are usually best left to a professional. http://www.ideamarketers.com/./library/article.cfm?articleid=77994 | ||||||||||||||||||||
