{{ propApi.closeIcon }}
Our industry
Our industry $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
Housing industry insights Economics Insights Data & forecasts Tailored research and analysis Advocacy & policy Advocacy Policy priorities Position statements Submissions News and inspiration Industry news Member alerts Media releases HOUSING Online
Business support
Business support $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
Become an apprentice host Hire an apprentice Why host a HIA apprentice? Apprentice partner program Builder & manufacturer program Industry insurance HIA Insurance Services Construction works insurance Home warranty insurance Tradies & tool insurance Member perks Toyota vehicles The Good Guys Commercial Fuel savings See all Planning & safety solutions Building & planning services Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) Solutions for your business Contracts Online Advertise jobs Trusted support & guidance Contracts & compliance support Industrial relations
Resources & advice
Resources & advice $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
Building it right Building codes Australian standards Getting it right on site See all Building materials & products Concrete, bricks & walls Getting products approved Use the right products for the job See all Managing your business Dealing with contracts Handling disputes Managing your employees See all Managing your safety Safety rules Working with silica See all Building your business Growing your business Maintaining your business See all Other subjects Getting approval to build Sustainable homes See all
Careers & learning
Careers & learning $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
A rewarding career Become an apprentice Apprenticeships on offer How do I apply? Frequently asked questions Study with us Find a course to suit you Qualification courses Learning on demand Professional development courses A job in the industry Get your builder's licence Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Further your career Find jobs
HIA community
HIA community $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
Join HIA Sign me up How do I become a member? What's in it for me? Mates rates Get involved Become an award judge Join a committee Partner with us Our initiatives HIA Building Women GreenSmart Kitchen, bathroom and design hub Get to know us Our members Our people Our partners Support for you Charitable Foundation Mental health program
Awards & events
Awards & events $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
Awards Awards program People & Business Awards GreenSmart Australian Housing Awards Awards winners Regional Award winners Australian Housing Award winners 2024 Australian Home of the Year Enter online Industry events Events in the next month Economic outlook National Conference Events calendar
HIA shop
HIA shop $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
Most popular products National Construction Code Vol 1 & 2 Waterproofing wet areas AS 3740:2021 HIA Guide to Waterproofing HIA Guide to NCC Livable Housing Provisions Top categories Building codes & standards Contracts & documents Guides & manuals Safety products Signage For your business Contracts Online Digital Australian Standards Digital Resource Library Forecasts & data
About Contact Newsroom
$vuetify.icons.faTimes
$vuetify.icons.faMapMarker Set my location Use the field below to update your location
Address
Change location
{{propApi.title}}
{{propApi.text}} {{region}} Change location
{{propApi.title}}
{{propApi.successMessage}} {{region}} Change location

$vuetify.icons.faPhone1300 650 620

Using hand and power tools safely

Using hand tools incorrectly – or tools that are not fit for purpose or not suited to the person using them have resulted in many injuries at construction workplaces. Sometimes it’s as insignificant as a minor cut or scrape, but can also be much more serious such as a deep laceration, or joint and tissue injury. Before starting the work activity check that you have the right tool for the job. It’s important to consider the design and condition of tools as well - if it’s too heavy or awkward to hold it can make discomfort greater and lead to more serious symptoms or other injuries.

The majority of serious incidents however occur mainly due to improper power tool use involving common tools such as nail guns, circular saws, compound mitre saws, and grinders. If not used correctly, these tools can be extremely hazardous and have the potential to cause severe life changing injuries such as loss of sight from being struck in the eye by dust and projectiles, loss of movement or amputations from deep lacerations to bone and tendons after coming into contact with moving parts (saw blade), and hearing loss from prolonged or sudden high exposure to noisy tools. 

How to protect yourself and others:

  • If one is provided, read the operators manual prior to use
  • Plan and risk assess how you’re going to do the work before you start including what you’ll do if something does go wrong
  • Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment for the job i.e. eye protection (goggles/face shields to protect eyes from flying particles and dust), ear muffs to protect ears from noise damage, gloves etc
  • Reduce effects of muscle fatigue by working in a way that is comfortable and not in a restricted or awkward position
  • Avoid working in positions where your arms are above shoulder height or tools are held for extended periods without proper rest breaks or task rotation
  • Ensure the tool is in good working condition and has been appropriately maintained, electrically safe (‘tested & tagged’), and fit for purpose
  • Make sure safety guards are in place and keep your hands and feet away from any moving parts
  • Keep the material being worked on secured and make sure you only operate the tool in a well-lit area
  • If you haven’t received adequate explanation, guidance, direction or training in the tool you’re required to use, don’t use it – always raise this with your supervisor or HIA Field Officer immediately

To find out more, contact HIA's Building Services team.

Email us

Share with your network:
More articles on:
{{ tag.label }} {{ tag.label }} $vuetify.icons.faTimes
Find the latest expert advice, guides and much more!

Managing your business


 

Can’t find what you need, check out other resources that might be closer to the mark.

Explore resources

NSW Site Sign - Warning Asbestos Containing Material

Erect this 600x450mm warning sign at your construction-site to show that asbestos materials are present and that a licenced asbestos removalist is managing its removal. NSW signs are made from weather resistant, 5mm thick corflut...

QLD Site Sign - Warning Asbestos Containing Material

Erect this 600x450mm warning sign at your construction-site to show that asbestos materials are present and that a licenced asbestos removalist is managing its removal.

TAS Large Site Multisign - 8 In 1 Safety Sign

This large 8-in-1 multi-sign warns of potential hazards on your construction-site.

WA Site Sign - Asbestos Removal in Progress

Show that asbestos materials are present and that a licenced asbestos removalist is managing its removal with this 600x450mm warning sign at your construction site.