Powder-actuated hand tools probably have as much safety built into them as most tools on the market. In addition, manufacturers usually provide complete instructions for safe operation of the tools.
These two factors alone should make the use of powder-actuated tools a safe operation. However, there are other precautions which have to be taken.
To start with, only trained and authorized personnel, who are checked out in correct usage and safety, should operate powder-actuated tools.
The hazards connected with using this type of tool are probably quite apparent to you and include such things as accidental discharge, ricocheting studs or chips, explosions from use in combustible atmospheres, flying particles and complete penetration of the work material by the stud.
Protective equipment is necessary. You must wear approved safety goggles. A face shield and safety hat are also recommended.
To protect against flying particles, powder-actuated tools should have interlocked shields which are designed to fit over the particular shape to be fastened. If a standard shield won’t work, a special one may be designed, but must meet required protection, including interlock. Added operator precautions include making sure that the bore is clear before loading. Make certain that the cartridge is fully seated, the breach closed and locked and that all safety devices are in working order.
Before starting work, familiarize yourself with what is behind the surface you’ll be working on so as not to damage electrical wires or lines.
Studs should not be driven into very hard or brittle substances such as, but not limited to cast iron, glazed tile, hollow tile, face brick, glass block or surface hardened steel.
Don’t use powder-actuated tools on materials which are easily penetrated or on concrete less than two inches thick, or on steel less than one-quarter inch, unless sufficient backing, such as sandbags or timber is placed behind the work.
Obviously, you should never point a powder-actuated tool at anyone and don’t rest it against your body. Before firing the tool, make sure others in the area are clear and wearing proper eye protection.
Insert a cartridge into the tool only when ready to be fired.
Powder-actuated tools should be inspected for defects before each use. Do not use defective tools and report them to your supervisor.
Tools should be carried vertically and every effort made not to drop them. Never leave a tool unattended.
In case of a misfire, the tool should be held against the work surface in operating position for at least 30 seconds, then try again. If a second misfire occurs, repeat the 30 second wait, then remove the cartridge.
Misfired cartridges should be disposed of safely to prevent anyone gaining access to them.
When not in use, the tool, studs and cartridges should be locked in a safe place. Loaded blank cartridges should be transported in a locked container.
Size up the job to be done and select the proper stud and cartridge. In case of doubt about the surface and strength of material, a light trial shot can be taken after all regular safety precautions are accomplished.
Don’t drive a fastener into materials such as masonry less than three inches from an unsupported edge or corner, or into steel surfaces less than one-half inch from an unsupported edge or corner. For low velocity tools, the distances can be lowered to two inches for masonry and one-quarter inch for steel surfaces.
Do not drive studs through existing holes unless a guide is used to secure alignment.
In five minutes, it’s difficult to cover all aspects of powder-actuated hand tool safety, but we’ve touched on many important ones. So remember to follow safety rules and the manufacturer’s instructions, and use necessary protective equipment.