10 Pro Tips For Working Safely With Tools & Equipment

Not sure how to work safely with power tools and equipment? Working with tools and equipment is a daily routine for many in the Canadian workforce.

However simple it may seem, though, the fact remains that working safely with tools and equipment is no simple matter IF one doesn’t know how to do it properly.

It turns out that there are various methods and tips that we all need to keep in mind when working with the gear that helps us do our jobs properly. To avoid hazards and work effectively and efficiently using certain items, some safety tips are in order.

Essential Safety Tips for Working with Tools & Equipment

First of all, we’re going to enlighten you on work methods and tools.

• You need to ensure that you are using the correct tools for the job. Using the wrong tools is a safety risk.
• You need to ensure that you protect your eyes when working with a wide range of tools and equipment. Not using safety glasses is a hazard as well.
• You need to use and store sharp objects very carefully. Ensure that you sheath them before you store them away (if you don’t or if you aren’t very careful with them, you are going to put your safety at risk as well as the safety of others on your team).
• You need to report any injuries or accidents that you or anyone else may have incurred. That way, it will be less likely for accident or injury to happen again.

Following these steps will help reduce risk in your workplace, and help you and your teammates work more safely.

Further Ways to Work Safely

Next up, we’d like to share with you some general safety tips to ensure the safe use of equipment and tools.

• Ensure that your tools are properly maintained and that you use them correctly in order to avoid hazards
• Ensure that you keep your eyes open for any signs of problems with electrical equipment in the work environment (this may include signs such as faulty connections, smoke, sparks, loose wires, etc.)
• Ensure that you don’t tamper with any electrical equipment that you suspect needs repair (consult with qualified personnel to do the necessary repairs)
• Ensure that you switch off computers, printers and other electrical equipment at the socket
• Ensure that you never overload the socket outlet
• Ensure that you use the right adapters for items of equipment that have two-pin plugs

By keeping these safety tips in mind, you’re helping yourself, your coworkers and your organization maintain and enhance a safe and productive workplace.

How to Maintain a Safe Working Environment

It’s one thing to safely and properly use tools, it’s another thing to create a safe working environment.

• Temperature – It’s important to maintain a temperature that does not impede the concentration of workers or limits the capacity of the equipment to function properly.
• Noise Level – The equipment should not distract the user or others in the workplace. If the equipment volume can’t be adjustment, consider moving your tools to soundproofed area.
• Lighting – Make sure that surrounding windows have blinds to block unwanted glare. Similarly, it’s important that there is adequate lighting where the work is being done to ensure proper visibility.
• Ventilation – When working with power tools you should maintain proper ventilation in the work area. This will help control humidity and ventilate any fine particles that might be dangerous or hazardous to breathe in.

Keeping these safety tips in mind, you’ll be one step closer to creating and maintaining a safe working environment.

How ACT Can Help with Safety Training

A safe workplace is crucial for the continued success of your organization.

Ensuring that you have the right safety procedures and policies for things such as working at heights, first aid CPR, confined space entry, as well as things like WHMIS-GHS can create a great work environment that is safe and productive.

Since our founding, their diverse team of certified health and safety professionals at Advanced Consulting & Training has taken great pride in our ability to deliver prompt, cost-effective and relevant workplace health and safety solutions.

As a CPO approved, TSSA accredited, and WSIB approved provider, we look forward to discussing how ACT can help with your company’s safety requirements. Contact us today.