SAFETY
DIY could mean 'Don't Injure Yourself'
October 16, 2009
As do-it-yourselfers scramble to get the last of their renovations complete before winter weather rolls in, the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) has important safety tips to pass on when it comes to the use of hand tools.
Ask any DIYer and they will tell you there is nothing quite like the satisfaction of seeing a home improvement project through from start to finish. What many will also tell you is that a slip of the hand, an unsteady load or an uneven surface can result in a great deal of pain and suffering when dealing with powered hand tools.
Safety is a major concern for employers, employees and many home DIYers. In 1985, the CSA introduced standards for portable electric tools and electric bench tools. Since that time, incidents of injuries have continued to drop on a yearly basis.
Each year the Association of Workers' Compensation Boards of Canada publishes the National Work Injury, Disease and Fatality Statistics, documenting the nature of loss-time and fatal incidents in the workplace. The CSA tracks various benchmarks though its Key Performance Indicators, available at www.csagroup.org. In 1994, more than 7,000 hand tool injuries were recorded in Canada. By 2005, that number had dropped to less than 3,900. The introduction and revisions of several CSA standards during that time period led to this decrease.
Tips for the safer usage of hand tools:
Use the right tool for the job.
Ensure than your tools are certified by CSA or another agency.
Ensure your tools are in good working order.
Read the instruction manual and ensure you know how to properly use your tools.
Be aware of flying debris.
If in doubt, check it out.
Be aware of hazards and other people in your working environment.
When a tool begins to show signs of wear, repair or replace.
Never carry a tool by the cord or hose.
Never yank the cord or the hose to disconnect it from the receptacle.
Keep cords and hoses away from heat, oil and sharp edges.
Disconnect tools when not in use, before servicing, and when changing accessories such as blades, bits and cutters to prevent accidental start up.
Secure work with clamps or a vise, freeing both hands to operate the tool.
Avoid accidental starting – do not hold a finger on the switch button while carrying a plugged-in tool.
Be sure to keep good footing and maintain good balance.
The proper apparel should be worn (loose clothing, ties, or jewellery can become caught in moving parts).
Canadian Standards Association
Toronto Star