Explosive Power Tools Operation Safety Instructions

The purpose of this safety procedure is to provide the safety requirements for the use of power actuated fastening tools. This Instruction applies to all applications where power actuated tools are used on a project. Always refer to the power tool operating manual and cartridge operating manual.

Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment

The introduction of Power Actuated Fastening tools to the construction industry has enabled many trades to easily provide fixings into any substrate thus saving on costs of using older conventional methods.

However, in the wrong hands they can be very dangerous. It is essential therefore that these tools are used only by trained, certificated and experienced operatives who are over 18 years of age, and because cartridges are color coded, should not suffer from defective color vision.

Risk Checklist for Explosive Power Tools

The following types of risk may be present and will need to be assessed and the degree of risk reduced to that which is as low as reasonably practicable:

i. Untrained personnel.

ii. Eye, facial and body injuries.

iii. Misfire and associated safety procedures.

iv. Unauthorized use.

Necessary Control Measures

a) All users should read the instruction manual before using the gun.

b) User should be competent and trained. Displayed on person.

c) Hold a current training certificate applicable to the tool being used.

d) Keep a record of training on site.

e) Before handling gun make sure that the tool is not loaded

f) Users should be provided with eye and ear protection.

g) Never walk around with the tool loaded.

h) Load the tool pointing it in a safe position away from you and any other persons

i) Never place your hand over the end of the barrel.

j) Splatter guards should be kept in position.

k) Tools should never be laid down or stored whilst cartridge loaded.

l) The materials into which fixings are to be fired should be checked and the area behind checked to ensure that persons are not likely to be injured by flying fixings.

m) Damaged, unserviceable or unsafe tools should be withdrawn from site with an out of service tag immediately and not returned to use until the fault has been rectified.

n) Only nails and cartridges compatible with the machine should be used.

o) Allow at least 75mm from the edge of the concrete or brickwork to avoid misfire

p) Hold tool at right angles to the job when firing

q) If the tool does not fire wait for 10 seconds, then remove the gun pointing to the floor

r) In the event of misfire wait one minute before reloading

s) The tools must always be operated from a firm and stable position

t) Keep the tool unloaded if not in use

u) Tools must be regularly cleaned and oiled.

v) Free flight tools should not be used unless specifically authorised by the Project Manager.

w) When not being used even for a short period, tools should be kept in a locked box, preferably supplied by the manufacturer.

x) Never point loaded, cartridge tool in the direction of other persons.

y) Cartridges should be issued only by an authorized person.

z) Cartridge tools should be returned to the stores at the end of each day or when the work is completed whichever comes first.

aa) Cartridges to be locked up in a dry cool place and only issued under strict control. Reconciliation must be done on daily basis.

bb) Unused or left over cartridges should be collected and returned to the stores after work is completed or at the end of the day.

cc) Tools to be maintained in good order, any defects should be brought to the attention of management.

dd) Cartridge tools must never be used in any area where flammable gases, vapors, or explosive dusts are present.

ee) Mandatory sign must be displayed and fencing to make all aware of activity.

Safety Checklist for Operators and Toole

Safety of Users
a) Must be over 18 year of age.

b) Are authorized to do the job

c) Provided with all necessary personal protective equipment.

d)  Operators are trained and competent.

e) In possession of a current training certificate. Display in work area.

f) In receipt of all relevant information.

Safety of Tools

a) Suitable for the task.

b) Suitable for the environment

c) In good condition.

d) Safe to be operated in the vicinity of other site users.

e) Provided with all necessary accessories.

f) Are the tools issued by an authorized person in a controlled manner