Poster of the Month, March 2015: Power tool safety

DOES YOUR POWER TOOL CUT IT?

If your power tool is blunt, you may be gripping it too tightly or applying too much force

This could mean you are exposed to unhealthy levels of vibration

Keep tools sharp so they do the hard work

March's Poster of the Month looks at power tool safety — specifically, maintaining power tools correctly and making sure they are sharp.

We all know the dangers of sharp objects, but dull blades and tips can be equally risky. They can be difficult to control and are more likely to slip. 

Dull tools also require the operator to use more force, which can lead to Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS).

Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS)

HAVS is a condition that is particularly common in people who use hand-held power tools. It is preventable but, if the symptoms are ignored, it can cause permanent damage to the nerves, blood vessels and joints of the hand, wrist and arm. 

Employees should be alert for the signs of HAVS and report any concerns to their manager. Symptoms may include:

• tingling or numbness in the fingers;
• loss of feeling or sensation in the fingers; and
• difficulty in picking up or holding heavy objects.

Continued exposure to the vibration may cause these symptoms to worsen and the numbness and loss of feeling in the fingers may become permanent.

Kodiak posters regularly cover the use of power tools in manufacturing and highlight the symptoms and risks of HAVS. 

If you need posters on these subjects, we have a wide range available via our sales team.

For more information, please call us on 01530 456 000 or visit our website: www.kodiak.co.uk