Workplace accidents involving hand and power tools are rather prevalent because of how common these items are. Before an extremely harmful accident happens, measures must be taken to recognize and eliminate potential tool-related hazards. Workers using hand and power tools face a variety of risks, including but not limited to those posed by falling or flying materials, abrasions, splashing objects, toxic dusts or fumes, mists, vapors, and gases, and electrical shock.

OSHA has issued guidelines for the general industry, the maritime industry, and the construction industry that cover the use of hand and power tools safely. In this course, we will examine OSHA’s guidelines and procedures concerning the use of hand and power equipment on the job.