31 Mar Hammers and Chisels

Hammers and Chisels

Hammers and chisels are among the most common hand tools on a jobsite, but their familiarity can cause workers to underestimate their hazards. Improper use can result in cuts, crushed fingers, punctures, and serious eye or facial injuries from flying nails, concrete, metal fragments, or pieces of damaged tools.

Before beginning work, select the correct tool for the task, inspect it for damage, and make sure nearby employees are protected from flying material.

Chisel Safety

When using a chisel:

• Select the correct type and size of chisel for the material and task.
• Inspect the chisel before use. Do not use a chisel that is cracked, bent, excessively worn, or otherwise damaged.
• Never use a chisel with a mushroomed or deformed striking head. Remove it from service and have it properly dressed or replaced.
• Keep cutting edges properly sharpened. A dull chisel may require excessive force and can increase the chance of slipping.
• Wear appropriate eye protection with side protection. Use a face shield in addition to safety glasses or goggles when flying fragments present a significant hazard.
• Keep hands and fingers away from the striking area. Use a chisel holder or hand guard when practical.
• Never use a chisel when your hands are numb or when you cannot maintain proper control.
• Direct chips and fragments away from yourself and other workers.
• Position yourself so nearby employees are not exposed to flying material, or establish a safe area around the work.
• Never use a chisel as a pry bar, screwdriver, wedge, or other tool for which it was not designed.

Hammer Safety

Always use the right hammer for the job. Different hammers are designed for different materials and striking applications.

Before and during use:

• Inspect the hammer for a cracked, split, loose, or damaged handle.
• Make sure the hammer head is securely attached to the handle.
• Do not use a hammer with a chipped, cracked, mushroomed, or excessively worn striking face.
• Keep handles and striking surfaces clean and free from oil, grease, and other substances that could cause loss of control.
• Maintain a firm grip and keep your attention on the striking point.
• Make sure there is adequate clearance for the backswing and that no one can unexpectedly enter the swing area.
• Strike the object squarely with the face of the hammer. Glancing blows can cause the hammer or struck object to deflect.
• Never strike with the side or cheek of a hammer unless the tool is specifically designed for that purpose.
• Never strike one hammer against another.
• Do not strike hardened or tempered tools with an inappropriate hammer. Use the striking tool recommended for the application.
• Never allow another employee to hold a nail, chisel, punch, or similar object in the striking area when safer methods are available.

Protect Against Flying Objects

Striking operations can send small fragments considerable distances. Employees performing or working near hammering and chiseling operations must be protected from flying particles.

Before striking:

• Put on required safety glasses or goggles.
• Add a face shield when the task creates significant flying-particle hazards.
• Check that other employees are clear of the hazard area.
• Use barriers or screens when necessary to protect nearby workers.
• Inspect the material being struck for conditions that could cause unexpected breakage or flying fragments.

Remember that a face shield does not replace required safety glasses or goggles when impact eye protection is necessary.

Remember

A hammer or chisel may be simple, but one damaged tool or misplaced blow can cause a serious injury. Inspect your tools, protect your eyes and face, keep your hands clear of the striking area, and always use the correct tool for the job.