Observing for T&E

OBSERVING for Tools and Equipment

Statistics show that 25% of accidents and injuries occur because of people not using the proper tool or equipment for a specific job. Tools designed for one application and used for another increase the risk of injury. Improperly functioning tools expose workers to unexpected situations that also, increase the risk of injury.

Wrong for the job or used incorrectly

• using the hand as a hammer 

• using a screwdriver to cut open a package 

• hammering with a wrench 

• proper tool not available 

• tool use causes awkward hand/wrist/arm posture 

• using a tool with greater or lesser capacity than needed for the job 

• modifying tools to enhance performance 

• using the thumb to activate the pistol grip tool 

In need of repair or replacement

• using tools that are visibly in need of repair 

• tool performs erratically 

• using a forklift with brakes that don’t work right 

• using a ladder with a broken rung 

• tool handles slippery or dirty 

• failure to take broken equipment out of service 

Clutter & poor housekeeping

• equipment, tools, and debris lying around the work area 

• the worker doesn’t put the tool away when finished 

• workers step over clutter rather than cleaning it up 

• workers not expected to clean up the area at 

• the end of a shift