A t one time or another, every one of us has used a hand tool at home or here in the workplace. While doing so, we probably didn’t spend a whole lot of time thinking about safety. After all, hand tools are such simple devices – what could possibly go wrong? Plenty, it turns out. Consider that incidents involving hand tools lead to 8% of all work-related injuries in the U.S., according to data from federal regulators. Variety of injuries The improper use of hand tools can cause a variety of injuries, including: • amputations – a tool that can cut materials can also slice through fingers, arms, toes and other body parts. • blindness and vision loss – flying particles produced during hand tool operation can enter the user’s eyes and cause a severe injury. • lacerations and punctures – any hand tool with a blade has the potential to cause a laceration or a puncture wound. • broken bones – an unattended tool could fall from an elevated location and land on someone below. • death – blunt force trauma from falling tools or blood loss from a cut can sometimes be fatal. • repetitive motion injuries – the use of the same tool in the same manner for an extended time can put stress on the operator’s muscles and ligaments. (How can we avoid injuries while using hand tools?) To steer clear of injuries while using hand tools, make sure you have the right tool for the task. Don’t use a wrench as a hammer or a screwdriver as a chisel. And confirm that the tool is the correct size. Select ergonomically designed tools for jobs that involve repetitive motions. Safety gear It’s also important to put on safety gear before using the tool. Wear safety goggles, safety gloves, a hard hat and steel-toed safety shoes. Loose clothing, jewelry and ties shouldn’t be worn. Don’t start using a tool until you’ve inspected it. Look for signs of wear and damage. Tools shouldn’t be rusty, warped, splintered, or cracked. And be wary of tools covered in paint, dirt, or grease – tool damage could be hidden. Broken tools should be removed from service right away. Secure grip, footing While you’re using the tool, make sure your grip and footing are secure. Stay aware of the positioning of your hands throughout the job. Keep your hands away from materials that have sharp edges. And never put your hands in a place where you can’t see them. Secure the workpiece with a vise if you can. When you’re using knives and other cutting tools, cut in a direction away from yourself. Take short breaks and stretch if you have to repeatedly use the same tool with the same motions. Thanks for your attention. And remember, let’s stay safe out there! Subject: Hydrogen sulfide When you consider that just one whiff of hydrogen sulfide could cause you to lose consciousness and die, you know it’s important to pay attention to safety when you’re working around this colorless and odorless gas. What to focus on Here are three things to keep in mind in order to reduce the risks posed by hydrogen sulfide. 1. Recognize when you could be in danger. Hydrogen sulfide is produced naturally from decaying organic matter. It’s most often found in sewer and wastewater treatment systems; manure storage pits and lagoons; underground tanks, tunnels and other confined spaces; oil and gas wells; landfills; and other areas with decaying organic waste. 2. Protect yourself. If you know you’ll be laboring in an area that could contain hydrogen sulfide, put on an air-purifying or a supplied-air respirator. Also keep an approved gas detector handy. Adequately ventilate the work area, and immediately leave the area if the gas meter sounds an alarm or you smell rotten eggs. 3. Don’t be a hero. If a coworker has been felled by hydrogen sulfide in an enclosed space, don’t rush in to help – unless you’re wearing a self-contained breathing apparatus. Today’s safety meeting ✔ Topic: Hand tools ✔ Today’s Date: __________________ ✔ Attendee Signatures: Tailgate talk Supervisor’s safety toolbox SafetyAlert FOR SUPERVISORS 4 Safety Alert for Supervisors April 20, 2026