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Introduction to this document

Safety briefing - power and hand tools

This briefing addresses the key risks and control measures needed when using power and hand tools in the workplace.

What’s covered?

The aim of this Safety Briefing - Power and Hand Tools is to ensure that all staff are fully aware of the potential risks associated with working with power and hand tools and what they should do to minimise the chances of an injury or incident occurring.

Hazards and risks

The briefing identifies that although power and hand tools are used in a wide range of workplace locations, it exposes employees (and others nearby) to health and safety risks. The main hazards from power tool operations include: electrocution, fire and explosion and compressed air.

Management

Control measures include completing a risk assessment, providing staff with correct training and issuing staff with personal protective equipment.

Key points

Attendees must take note of the following key point:

  • It may be necessary to use more than one control measure. Further, the use of personal protective equipment, including respiratory protective equipment, should not be relied upon as the primary control measure.