Vol.25 | No.30 | Week of 07-28-25

POWDER-ACTUATED TOOLS

Date:

Job Name:

Knowing how to
operate powder-
actuated tools
safely is a matter
of life & death.
!

Supervisor Signature:

Powder-actuated tools are some of the safest tools in the construction industry.

These tools are designed with safety in mind. However, you must remember that a
powder-actuated tool uses explosive charges to drive studs, nails and pins, just like
bullets from a gun. Think of powder-actuated tools as loaded firearms.

OSHA’s regulations allow only trained and certified employees to operate powderactuated tools. There are several makes and models of these tools, and no two
are exactly alike. Training and operator certification should be available from the
supplier or manufacturer. If you haven’t had the appropriate training don’t use a
powder-actuated tool.

Here are some safety tips:

ñ Always keep powder-actuated tools, fasteners, and charges in a safe place
when they are not in use. ñ Inspect the tool before use to ensure it is clean, all moving parts operate
freely, and the barrel is not obstructed. ñ Wear appropriate safety equipment including eye protection, hearing
protection, and head protection. ñ Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for disposal instructions in case
of a misfire. ñ Powder-actuated tools should not be used on materials that are easily
penetrated. ñ Don’t fire fasteners into cast iron, high carbon or tempered steel, armor
plate, rock, glazed brick, tile, or glass. ñ Using a charge that is too strong could shoot the fastener completely
through the work-piece. ñ Never try to release a loaded tool that has jammed in the firing position. ñ Hold the tool perpendicular to the work surface. ñ Never point a powder-actuated tool at others whether it is loaded or not. ñ Loaded tools should not be left unattended. ñ All powder-actuated tools must be tested daily and all defects must be
corrected. ñ Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance, inspection, and
cleaning. ñ Never place your hand over the muzzle of a powder-actuated tool.

Powder-actuated tools save a great deal of time and work, but they can also be
very dangerous. Even though you may be certified to use them, take a few minutes
to review the operator’s manual, then make sure you really understand it.

Vol.25 | No.30 | Week of 07-28-25

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