22 Mar Powder Actuated Tools

Powder-Actuated Tools

Powder-actuated tools use an explosive charge to drive fasteners into concrete, masonry, steel, and other suitable materials. Because these tools operate with considerable force and can cause serious or fatal injuries, they must be treated with the same level of caution as other equipment capable of discharging a projectile.

Only employees who have been properly trained and authorized may operate powder-actuated tools.

Common Hazards

Hazards associated with powder-actuated tools include:

• Flying particles and debris.
• Fasteners passing completely through the work surface.
• Ricocheting fasteners.
• Accidental discharge.
• Improper selection of fasteners or power loads.
• Fire or explosion where flammable materials are present.
• Injury to employees on the opposite side of the work surface.
• Noise exposure.
• Defective or improperly maintained tools.

Training and Authorization

Employees must receive appropriate training before operating a powder-actuated tool.

Operators must:

• Be trained in the specific type of tool being used.
• Understand the manufacturer’s operating instructions.
• Know how to select the proper fastener and power level.
• Understand acceptable and prohibited fastening materials.
• Know the procedures for misfires, jams, inspection, and storage.
• Use the tool only for its intended purpose.

Training must not be replaced by informal instruction from another employee.

Inspect and Test Before Use

Inspect the tool before each use according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Before loading:

• Make sure the tool is clean and in proper working condition.
• Inspect the barrel, muzzle, safety devices, and operating components.
• Verify that guards and shields are installed when required.
• Ensure the tool operates only when pressed against the work surface with the required force.
• Verify that the tool requires the required separate actions to discharge.
• Check that the correct fastener and power load have been selected.

Never use a defective powder-actuated tool. Remove defective equipment from service until it has been properly repaired.

Before Firing

Evaluate both the work surface and the area behind it before driving a fastener.

• Determine what material you are fastening into.
• Know what is located behind or on the opposite side of the surface.
• Keep employees away from the opposite side of walls, floors, or other surfaces where penetration could occur.
• Check for electrical wiring, piping, utilities, and other hidden hazards.
• Keep unnecessary personnel away from the work area.
• Never point the tool at yourself or another person.
• Keep your hands and other body parts away from the muzzle.

Never assume a wall, floor, or other surface is solid or clear on the opposite side.

Materials and Fastening

Do not drive fasteners into materials that could shatter, crack, or allow uncontrolled penetration.

Examples may include:

• Cast iron.
• Glass.
• Glazed brick.
• Tile.
• Hardened or high-carbon steel.
• Face brick.
• Hollow or otherwise unsuitable materials.

Follow the tool manufacturer’s requirements for acceptable base materials, fasteners, edge distances, and fastening locations.

Do not drive a fastener into a previously attempted or failed fastening location unless specifically permitted by the manufacturer.

Loading and Handling

• Load the tool only immediately before use.
• Never leave a loaded tool unattended.
• Never carry a loaded tool unnecessarily from one work area to another.
• Never point a loaded or unloaded tool at another person.
• Keep your finger away from the trigger until the tool is properly positioned for firing.
• Do not engage in horseplay with a powder-actuated tool.
• Use only power loads and fasteners recommended by the tool manufacturer.

Never use firearm ammunition in a powder-actuated tool or powder-actuated tool charges in a firearm.

Misfires and Jams

A misfire does not mean the tool is safe.

If a tool fails to fire:

• Keep the tool pointed safely against the work surface.
• Follow the manufacturer’s specified waiting period and misfire procedure.
• Do not immediately open, unload, or inspect the tool.
• Keep other employees away.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safely removing the load after the required waiting period.
• Do not attempt unauthorized repairs or improvised methods of clearing a jam.

Report recurring misfires or malfunctions and remove defective equipment from service.

Personal Protective Equipment

Operators and other employees exposed to the operation must wear appropriate PPE, which may include:

• Safety glasses with side protection or goggles.
• A face shield when additional protection from flying debris is necessary.
• Hearing protection.
• Hard hats where overhead hazards are present.
• Other task-specific PPE identified by the hazard assessment.

A face shield does not replace required primary eye protection.

Flammable or Explosive Atmospheres

Powder-actuated tools use an explosive charge and can create an ignition source.

Do not use powder-actuated tools in explosive, flammable, or otherwise hazardous atmospheres unless the equipment and operation are specifically approved for those conditions.

Check the surrounding area for flammable gases, vapors, liquids, combustible dust, and other ignition hazards before beginning work.

Storage

When not in use:

• Unload the tool before storage.
• Store tools in a secure location accessible only to authorized employees.
• Store power loads according to manufacturer requirements.
• Protect tools, fasteners, and loads from damage, heat, moisture, and unauthorized access.
• Never leave loaded tools unattended.

Remember

Powder-actuated tools can cause severe or fatal injuries when improperly handled. Only trained and authorized employees may operate them. Inspect the tool before use, know what you are fastening into and what is behind it, select the correct load, and never point the tool at anyone.