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Hand and power tools are commonly used on campus and they have the potential to cause a severe injury. Every year 400,000 people go to an emergency room from injuries related to hand and power tools. A few simple safety guidelines can prevent injuries to anyone working with or near these tools.

Universal Tool Safety: 

• Only use tools for their intended use.
• Inspect tools use before using them.
• Look for damaged handles, cords, guards, and cracks
• Do not override or remove any machine guards or safety switches
• Any tool that is damaged, broken, or needs maintenance shall be tagged-out and removed from service.
• Always wear proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Power Tools Safety Tips:

• Never hold tools by the electrical cord or air hose
• Do not pull the electrical cord from the wall
• Do not wear loose clothing, ties, jewelry, or anything that can be caught in a tool.
• Disconnect power source when inspecting, not in use, and when changing tools
• Do not override safety features or the ground wire.
• When working outdoors, only use extension cords marked with a W-A or W
• Protect extension cords from damage.
• Also, make sure extension cords do not create a trip hazard.
• Adjust safety guards to proper dimensions and never remove a machine guard. 

For more details and certain types of tools or ÃÛÌÒ½´policies, visit the ÃÛÌÒ½´Tool Safety Program.