Power tools pose various safety hazards that might not receive the necessary attention during safety training. Workers in North Carolina and elsewhere likely use similar tools at their homes, and after years without mishaps, they become complacent. However, a large number of work-related injuries involve power tools.
The reality is that power tools could cause catastrophic injuries that might even include amputations. If you take note of the primary hazards and how to mitigate them, you might go home safely at the end of each shift.
Grinders
Safety statistics indicate that experienced workers are as likely to suffer power tool injuries as inexperienced workers. In fact, many grinder-related injuries happen to those with extensive experience in operating these tools. For that reason, you must avoid taking shortcuts and never disregard safety precautions.
Power saws
Regardless of the size and type of power saws, they are all dangerous, from stationary table saws to small circular saws. The speed of the blades can remove your finger or even your hand in the blink of an eye. Reportedly, power saws cause thousands of workplace injuries each year.
Power drills
The two primary dangers posed by power drills are puncture wounds and electrocution from contact between the drill bit and live electrical wiring. However, you might want to make sure you do not wear loose clothing because many power drill injuries happen when the drill bit catches the operator’s loose clothing.
Nail guns
Nail guns are also tools that are powerful and dangerous, regardless of size or type. Reportedly, approximately 40,000 nail gun injury victims visit emergency rooms nationwide each year. About two-thirds of those cases involve on-the-job accidents. Along with many instances in which nails penetrate hands or feet, some nail gun injuries cause severe injuries or even death. Be extra careful if you work at an angle because that increases the risk of misfires and ricochets.
Precautions you can take
As mentioned, beware of complacency because that is a sure way to compromise your own safety. Check power tools for defects or faults before using them, and remove damaged or malfunctioning tools from service. Always follow the manufacturers’ safety regulations, and never remove safeguards or disable safety features installed by the manufacturer. Make sure your employer provides the necessary personal protective equipment, such as industrial gloves and safety glasses to protect your eyes.
Where to turn for help and support
You may be wise to take care when you work in proximity of co-workers operating power tools. Regardless of how you mitigate hazards, others might be less cautious, and you might be a victim of their negligence. However, if you suffer workplace injuries, the North Carolina workers’ compensation insurance program will likely have your back. Navigating the benefits claims process could be daunting, but you may utilize an attorney’s skills with experience in this field of the law.