OUCH! Power Tool Accidents

We all know the reasons why taking special care is so important when it comes to operating power tools. The risk of an accident is very possible. Accidents happen all the time, thousands are reported every year that are directly related to power tools. There are even some reports of death as a result. Use the right tool for the job, read the manual and never use a power tool for a task it is not intended to be used for. Pay attention the manufacturers recommendations on safety equipment, they don’t just make those things up.

Your fingers are the most susceptible to injury. Reports show that nearly half off all finger amputations in the United States each year involved a power tool. The index and the middle finger are the two generally involved in the accident. The most common power tool involved in these cases are the various types of saws. Of these finger injuries, 55% occurred while operating the power tool at home.

One of the more common mistakes that result in injury is neglecting to turn off the power while changing parts on a power tool. It doesn’t matter how much experience you have with the power tool or how quickly you can change the part. Drill bits and saw blades are the most common culprits. It only takes a moment to unplug the power source. If you are using a cordless power tool, you may want to remove the battery before you change anything on it. The inconvenience is worth your safety.

Cords on power tools are another concern. Using a cordless tool with eliminate several potential accidents such as tripping over the cord or injuries due to exposed wire. If you do use a power tool that has a cord, always secure it properly. Don’t leave the cord out in the open where you or someone else can trip on it. Inspect your tools for frayed cords before you get started. This includes an extension cords as well. Keep the cords out of wet, damp areas, because if liquid is spilled on them you are at risk of electrocution.

Even when using a tool properly, wearing the right safety equipment, accidents can still happen. You could slip or fall while you have a power tool in your hand which could easily result in an injury.

NEVER use alcohol when using a power tool. My brother is an ophthalmologist and has a story he uses all the time when advising people about safety issues. He had a patient once that was complaining about headaches occurring behind the area of his eye. X-rays showed that he had 3 16 penny nails lodged between the lobes of his brain. Evidently he had been using a nail gun to install facial boards under a gutter and accidentally shot himself. The nails went through the tear duct and into his head. He was so inebriated that he didn’t even notice until the next day.

One of the best preventative steps you can take is to be sure your work area is secure. Always secure your ladders in place before climbing up. Slippery and unstable surfaces should be dried and secured before you step on to them. I understand that not all work areas are under the best of circumstances but you must try to always be cautious and use common sense.

This information isn’t meant to scare you, only to help you remember that power tools are dangerous. I sincerely hope that all of your experiences with power tools with be safe and productive.

As we do our part, so do the manufacturers of power tools. They are very aware of the types of accidents and injuries that take place with power tools. They strive to make improvements on their power tools to help reduce the risk. Most manufacturers welcome your comments, so if you have any ideas on making them safer please contact the manufacturer of that particular power tool.