Vol.25 | No.35 | Week of 09-01-25

PNEUMATIC TOOLS

Date:

Job Name:

Vibration is an
ergonomic risk factor.
If your hands feel like
theyíre buzzing or
vibrating after work,
or if you feel like you
have less grip strength
at the end of the day,
talk to your supervisor
about vibration
trauma.
!

Supervisor Signature:

Pneumatic tools are powered by compressed air. Nail guns and jackhammers are
some of the most common pneumatic tools, but there are many others: chippers,
shears, wrenches, sanders, grinders, staplers, and even caulking guns. The
primary dangers youíll encounter are noise, vibration, and getting hit by chips,
attachments, or fasteners. All of these dangers can be controlled if you follow the
rules for using pneumatic tools and use them carefully.

Here are a few safe work practices to keep in mind when you use a pneumatic
tool:

ñ Only operate a pneumatic tool if youíre qualified and youíve been trained to
operate it safely.

ñ Eye protection is required when working with pneumatic tools. Always wear
safety glasses or goggles and consider a full-face shield.

ñ Wear earplugs, earmuffs, or both, to protect your hearing. Hearing
protection is required when you use pneumatic impact tools.

ñ Wear vibration-dampening gloves when using tools like chippers and
jackhammers. You can put vibration-dampening grips on the handles.

ñ Do not exceed the tool’s pressure rating.

ñ Keep track of the air hose so you donít create a tripping hazard for yourself
or others. Getting tangled up in the hose can cause you to stumble and fall.

Notes:

ñ Check hoses regularly for cuts, bulges, abrasions, and any other obvious
wear and tear.

ñ Never use compressed oxygen as a substitute for compressed air.

ñ Never point a pneumatic tool at anyone or at any part of your body.

ñ Never carry a pneumatic tool by its hose, and never hold or carry the tool
with your finger on the trigger. Develop a habit of keeping your finger away
from the trigger—not on it or over it.

ñ Disconnect tools when they are not in use, and before changing
attachments, servicing, cleaning, or attempting to clear a jam.

ñ Follow the cleaning and maintenance instructions that came with the tool.

ñ Do not remove or modify a safety device.

ñ On tools that shoot fasteners, test the safety contact tip each day to make
sure that it is working properly.

ñ When you buy a new nail gun or staple gun, choose one with a full
sequential trigger that prevents bump firing.

Vol.25 | No.35 | Week of 09-01-25

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