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/ SAFE WORK METHOD STATEMENT
USING HAND TOOLS (SWMS 02)

The old adage “a tradesman never blames his tools” is garbage – good work cannot be done without quality tools in first class condition.

/ Eye protection required. / / Close fitting or protective clothing (short sleeves) preferred.

Note: “Hand tools’ refers to hammers, screwdrivers, knives, saws, planes, chisels, files, rules, shovels etc. – any tool which does not rely on electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic or other power for its operation.

FORBIDDEN

Using makeshift/improper tools for prescribed tasks - ie, a claw hammer should not be used to form metal, a ball pein hammer should never be used to drive nails, screwdrivers are not for opening tins of paint, etc.

Throwing tools or using them in such a manner that anyone could be hurt.

Using files without handles.Using files as chisels.

Using adjustable spanners when better alternatives, eg. correct sized open end or ring spanners are available.

Carrying unguarded sharp-edged or pointed tools in pockets.

Using cold chisels or punches with mushroomed heads. Using a chisel as a pry bar.

Working tools such as chisels, punches, etc. toward the body. Striking punches without eye protection. Using hammers without eye protection.

Using any tool with a cracked, splintered or broken/worn handle.

Using a through tang screwdriver for electrical work.

GOOD PRACTICE

All tools should be kept in good condition and used correctly.

When not in use, all edged, toothed and pointed tools should be stored so as to not present a hazard.

Tools should be secured when sharpening. Exception – free hand grinding of lathe tools, drill bits, chisels, etc. is permissible for skilled operators.

Keep handles and gripping surfaces free of dirt, grease and splinters.

Tools for electrical work should be reserved for that purpose – clean insulation using isopropyl alcohol regularly.

Claw hammer faces should be kept ‘sharp’.

When using a spanner or wrench, take care that you will not be injured if the fastener breaks or releases suddenly.

When using picks, mattocks, crowbars, pry bars, etc. make sure you have clear space.

When cutting wire, small bolts etc., watch where the off-cut will go

When hacksawing, make sure the blade guarantees at least two teeth are always in the job.

Straight screwdrivers should fit the screw slot properly. Philips and pozidrive screwdrivers are not interchangeable – neither are torx and allen wrenches.

HOUSEKEEPING

Return tools to safe storage rather than allowing them to lie around and become a hazard.

This SWMS/SOP is intended to act as a reminder to assist safe working of qualified personnel. It does not necessarily cover all hazards that may arise during use of this equipment.

Date: 06JUN2012Author: P. Jacksonhandtoolssws.doc

Reviewed by:Revision No: 0