from State Compensation Insurance Fund
Powder-actuated tools are tools that function by utilizing an explosive charge. With a high velocity tool, the propellant acts directly on the fastener much like a firearm. With a low velocity tool, a piston is introduced into the chamber. The propellant acts on the piston, which then drives the fastener into the substrate. Regardless of the type of tool that is used, workers can be seriously injured or killed if a powder-actuated tool is improperly used or if safety precautions are not followed.
Only a person who is authorized, permit trained and qualified should be allowed to operate a powder-actuated tool (also known as explosive-actuated tools) and the operator should be trained in accordance with the specific tool manufacturer’s criteria.
When the job calls for a powder-actuated tool, be sure to select the correct cartridge for the fastener. Before you load the tool, test it as recommended by the manufacturer to ensure that all safety devices are working. Inspect it to see if it is clean and that all the moving parts are operational, and that the barrel is free from any obstruction. The muzzle end of the tool must have a protective shield centered perpendicular to the barrel to stop flying fragments. The tool should be designed not to fire unless this shield is in place. Remove a damaged or defective tool from service immediately. Never use powder-actuated tools in flammable, combustible or explosive environments.
Since a powder-actuated tool functions much like a firearm, treat it with the same safety precautions. These tools should be locked in a container when not in use. Load the tool just before use, keep the tool pointed in a safe direction, keep your hands clear of the open barrel, and never point it at anyone. Never leave a loaded tool unattended or carry it loaded from one job to another. The work area where these tools are used should be designated as such with the proper signage and bystanders should be kept out.
Wear the right gear when operating a powder-actuated tool, safety glasses/face shield, and hearing protection. Hold the tool firmly against and perpendicular to the surface into which you’re driving the fastener. Brace yourself when working on ladders or scaffolds. Fasteners should not be fired into material that could allow them to pass through to the other side.
Fasteners should not be driven into hard or brittle materials that might chip, splatter or make the fastener ricochet. Keep fasteners at least 3 inches from the edge or corner when driving them into materials like brick or concrete. When working with steel, the fastener shouldn’t come any closer than one-half inch from a corner or edge.
Take the time to check the other side of your surface to ensure no one is in the path of the fastener; never shoot into a blind surface. If the tool misfires, wait at least 30 seconds and then try firing again. If it still doesn’t fire, wait another 30 seconds so that the faulty cartridge is less likely to go off. Any misfired cartridge must be placed in a container of water and removed from the jobsite.
Remember that powder-actuated tools are manufactured with safety in mind but if handlers don’t follow safe operating procedures serious accidents and injuries can occur.
12/12/11
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