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Cutting & Prying Tools
Welcome back, let's Build Smart & Build Safe! We’ve covered impact tools. Today, we're focusing on some of the most versatile—and most dangerous—hand tools on a job site: cutting and prying tools.
These tools are designed to sever, scrape, and separate materials. If not used with absolute attention and precision, they can cause a serious laceration or a painful puncture.
The Three Rules for Cutting Tools
Cut Away from Your Body: This is the most important rule for using a utility knife or any other cutting tool. A slip can send the blade into your hand, arm, or leg. Always position your body so the blade's motion is directed away from you.
Use a Sharp Blade: A dull blade is a dangerous blade. A dull blade requires more force to cut through a material, increasing the chance of it slipping and causing an injury. A sharp blade does the work for you.
Use It as a Cutter: A utility knife is not a chisel. A knife blade is designed for slicing, not for prying, scraping, or punching holes. Using it for these unintended purposes can cause the blade to break and become a dangerous projectile.
Prying and Puncturing Tools
Screwdrivers and pry bars are essential for demolition and assembly, but they must be used correctly.
Screwdrivers: A screwdriver is designed for one purpose: to tighten or loosen a screw. Never use a screwdriver as a chisel, a punch, or a pry bar. This can damage the tip, cause it to slip, and can even cause the tip to break off.
Pry Bars: When using a pry bar, use your body weight to your advantage and maintain a stable stance. Be aware of the sudden release of pressure when a material breaks free, as it can cause you to lose your balance and fall.
The proper use of cutting and prying tools requires focus and a respect for the blade. A split second of inattention is all it takes for a life-altering injury.
Tomorrow, we'll talk about the safe use of wrenches and pliers.
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-The Safety Man
