One of the key issues associated with hand tool safety is choosing the right tool.

Approximately 8 percent of industrial incidents result from the improper use of hand tools, according to studies. Injuries range from simple cuts, contusions and abrasions to amputations, fractures and punctures.

Have you done any of these?
Below are examples of improper use of hand tools: 

• Pushing rather than pulling a wrench to loosen a tight fastener. 
• Bending metal with undersized pliers, which can damage the pliers and the metal 
• Holding an item you’re working on in one hand while attempting to remove a screw with a screwdriver in the other hand
• Cutting toward your body with a cutting tool 
• Using dull cutting tools
• Filing materials not properly secured in a vice with no handle on the file
• Using a tool not sized properly for the job (e.g., sockets that are slightly larger than the fastener, disc wrong speed for grinder)
• Using a tool without the guard
• Manually carrying equipment such as pipe
• Pulling/pushing equipment or tools in tight areas where there is a potential for a crush between objects 
• Hammering while holding object 
• Working around mechanical equipment that may trap or crush hands/fingers 
• Using wrenches or similar tools where a release of energy can strike or crush hands 
• Not using a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) electrical outlet or a tool with no ground prong 

What all workers should know:
Not only do you need to utilize the tool properly, but it needs to be in good shape. Take a moment before using any hand tool to ensure that it is in good shape. Some things to look for include:

• A hammer with a chipped head and/or with a loose or broken handle;
• A screwdriver with a worn or broken tip;
• Any cutting tool with a dull surface;
• Chisels with a mushroomed head;
• Cords with frays or missing ground
• Guard present and in working condition
• Blade proper size and speed rating (Grinder, Saw etc.)

Hand tools can be as dangerous as power tools.
Make sure you use them correctly.

“Think about the task at hand, rather than losing the hand you are using”