Tip #1

When and how should you inspect powered hand tools?

• Inspect tools for any damage prior to each use.
• Check the handle and body casing of the tool for cracks or other damage.
• If the tool has auxiliary or double handles, check to see that they are installed securely.
• Inspect cords for defects: check the power cord for cracking, fraying, and other signs of wear or faults in the cord insulation.
• Check for damaged faulty trigger lock switches.
• Inspect the plug for cracks and for missing loose faulty prongs.

Tip #2

What should you do if you find a tool defective?

• If a tool is defective, remove it from service, and tag it clearly "Out of service for repair".
• Replace or have repaired, damaged equipment immediately - do not use defective tools "temporarily".
• Have tools repaired by a qualified person - do not attempt field repairs.

Tip #3

What should you do before using powered hand tools?

• Ensure that you have been properly trained to use the tool safely. Read the operator's manual before using the tool and operate the tool according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Ensure that the power tool has the correct guard, shield or other attachment that the manufacturer recommends.
• In order to prevent shocks. Ensure that the tools are properly grounded using a three-prong plug and is double-insulated (and are labelled as such), or are powered by a low-voltage isolation transformer: this will protect users from an electrical shock.
• Check electric tools to ensure that a tool with a 3-prong plug has an approved 3-wire cord and is grounded. The three-prong plug should be plugged in a properly grounded 3-pole outlet. If an adapter must be used to accommodate a two-hole receptacle, the adapter wire must be attached to a known, functioning ground. Never remove the third, grounding prong from a plug.
• Replace open front plugs with dead front plugs. Dead front plugs are sealed and present less danger of shock or short circuit.
• Test all tools for effective grounding with a continuity tester or a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) before use.
• Use only the battery and charger as specified by the manufacturer.
• Remove the battery from the tool or ensure that the tool is switched off or locked off before changing accessories, making adjustments, or storing the tool.
• Store the battery pack safely so that no metal parts, nails, screws, wrenches and so on can come in contact with the battery terminals; failure to do this could result in shorting the battery and possibly cause sparks, fires or burns.

Tip #4

What should you do while using powered hand tools?

• Wear or use personal protective equipment or clothing that is appropriate for the work you are doing; this may include items such as safety glasses or goggles, hearing protection, dust mask, gloves, safety boots or shoes, or rubber boots.
• Switch off the tools before connecting them to a power supply.
• If a power cord feels more than comfortably warm or if a tool is sparking excessively, have it checked by a qualified service technician.
• Disconnect the power supply before making adjustments or changing accessories.
• Remove any wrenches and adjusting tools before turning on a tool.
• During use, keep power cords clear of tools and the path that the tool will take.
• Use clamps, a vice or other devices to hold and support the piece being worked on, when practical to do so. This will allow you to use both hands for better control of the tool and will help prevent injuries if a tool jams or binds in a work piece.
• Use only approved extension cords that have the proper wire size for the length of cord and power requirements of the electric tool that you are using. This will prevent the cord from overheating.
• Suspend power cords over aisles or work areas to eliminate stumbling or tripping hazards.
• Eliminate octopus connections: if more than one receptacle plug is needed, use a power bar or power distribution strip that has an integral power cord and a built-in overcurrent protection.
• Pull the plug, not the cord when unplugging a tool. Pulling the cord causes wear and may adversely affect the wiring to the plug - an electrical shock to the operator may result.
• Follow good housekeeping procedures - keep the work area free of clutter and debris that could be tripping or slipping hazards.
• Keep power cords away from heat, water, oil, sharp edges and moving parts. They can damage the insulation and cause a shock.
• Ensure that cutting tools, drill bits, etc. are kept sharp, clean and well maintained.
• Store tools in a dry, secure location when they are not being used.

Tip #5

What should you avoid when using powered tools?

• Do not wear gloves, loose clothing or jewelry while using revolving power tools. Tie back long hair or wear appropriate hair protection to prevent hair from getting caught in moving parts of equipment.
• Avoid accidental starting by ensuring the tool is turned off before you plug it in.
• Do not bypass the ON/OFF switch and operate the tools by connecting and disconnecting the power cord.
• Do not use electric tools in wet conditions or damp locations unless tool is connected to a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI).
• Avoid body contact with grounded surfaces like refrigerators, pipes and radiators when using electric powered tools; this will reduce the likelihood of shock if the operator's body is grounded.
• Do not plug several power cords into one outlet by using single-to-multiple outlet adapters or converters ("cube taps").
• Do not use light duty power cords.
• Do not connect or splice extension cords together to make a longer connection: the resulting extension cord may not be able to provide sufficient current or power safely.
• Do not tie power cords in knots. Knots can cause short circuits and shocks. Loop the cords or use a twist lock plug.
• Never break off the third prong on a plug: replace broken 3-prong plugs and make sure the third prong is properly grounded.
• Never use extension cords as permanent wiring: use extension cords only as a temporary power supply to an area that does not have a power outlet.
• Do not walk on or allow vehicles or other moving equipment to pass over unprotected power cords. Cords should be put in conduits or protected by placing planks on each side of them.
• Do not operate tools in an area containing explosive vapours or gases.
• Do not clean tools with flammable or toxic solvents.

Q: How important is proper maintenance for safety?
A: As with any tool, proper routine maintenance is important for safe and efficient use of pneumatic nailers and staplers. Regular oiling, if required, daily tightening of cap screws and ensuring proper movement of the safety element and trigger are extremely important for safe use.

NEVER attempt to repair a cracked or broken part, such as attempting to weld the fracture or break. This could result in a part which will no longer operate as designed, and place the user and others at risk. Refrain from such attempted repairs. It is not worth the risk!

Q: When should I disconnect the tool from the compressor?
A: Be safe. Always disconnect tool from the air supply before:

• Handing the tool to another person
• Leaving work area
• Moving tool to another location
• Cleaning a jammed fastener
• Attempting tool maintenance
• When not is use

Always practice safety first and remind your customers to do the same.

Q: Should I wear safety glasses while working?
A: Tests show that OSHA required Z87 safety glasses will deflect a 3-1/4" nail fired at 120 psi point-blank into the lens from only six inches away. To prevent eye injuries, always wear OSHA required Z87 safety glasses with permanently attached rigid, hard plastic side shields when using pneumatic tools or other equipment. The glasses must have Z87 printed or stamped on them. Gary’s Tool Repair offers these glasses in clear lenses (#PC0632) or tinted lenses (#PC0633). Insist that everyone in your work area wear them. In addition, help your customers protect themselves and their workers from needless eye injuries by recommending, stocking and displaying Z87 safety glasses.

Q: Why should I read the Operating Instructions Manual and the Safety Instruction Manual?
A: As a end user, you are aware important users manuals are included with each tool shipped from all factories. These manuals contain important sections relative to user safety, tool use, tool maintenance, etc. Therefore, make sure that these manuals are always included with the sale or rental of each tool. It’s a good idea to ask for extra copies for other tool users. Many times, the tool purchaser is one of a number of individuals who will have access to the tool. It is a good idea to have an inventory of all Manuals.

Q: Why choose a pneumatic nailer or stapler?
A. One of the most impressive is the speed with which they can drive nails or staples. I would venture to say that for every nail that I could hand drive on my best day, a pneumatic nailer would drive and set twelve! That is no exaggeration.
Although there is no need to go this fast, a reasonable speed would allow you to be 400 to 800 percent more productive. Nailing large subfloors and roof decks is a breeze. Hours worth of work becomes minutes. This means that contractors who use these tools can save you money. They are much more competitive.

Pneumatic nail tools are powerful and dangerous. They must be treated with respect.

Q: What general safety principles should you follow when using pneumatic nailing and stapling tools?

• Permit only experienced and trained persons to operate pneumatic nailing and stapling tools.
• Wear safety glasses or face a shield and, where necessary, use hearing protection.
• Inspect a tool before connecting it to air supply.
• Check tool safety mechanisms if applicable.
• Use only fasteners recommended by the manufacturer.
• Permit only properly trained people to carry out tool maintenance.