Safe use of tools and equipment

Tools and equipment are essential for construction tasks but can pose serious risks if not handled correctly.
Always ensure to wear appropriate PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), such as gloves, safety glasses, and hard hats.
Comprehensive training must be received before using any tool or equipment. Never operate machinery you haven’t been trained to use.
Maintain focus when using tools and machinery. Distractions can lead to dangerous incidents.
Always inspect tools and equipment before use to ensure they are in good condition and secure.
Know the emergency stop locations on any machinery you operate.

Always disconnect power tools when changing parts (blades, bits etc.) and when not in use.
Use ground-fault circuit-interrupters (GFCIs) with power tools to provide protection from electrical shock.
Power cords need to be regularly checked for any damage, ensure they are not a trip hazard and never remove them by pulling from the power socket.
Always consider if using a less risky, non-powered tool is viable instead.

Always choose the right tool for the job to prevent unnecessary risk. Using the wrong tool may lead to injury.
Hand tools should never be used outside of their intended purpose, for instance, using a screwdriver as a chisel.
Maintain safe storage for all tools when not in use to prevent any accidental harm or damage to the tools.
Sharp tools are safer as they require less force to use, but they need careful handling to prevent cuts and punctures.

Ensure ladders are stable and secure before climbing them. They should extend at least 1 metre above the landing point.
Never overreach on a ladder, as this can cause instability.
Use scaffolds when a task is too dangerous or complex for a ladder.
Scaffolds must be regularly checked by competent person to ascertain their safety.
Always use personal fall-arrest system (PFAS) while working on scaffolds more than 10 feet above ground.