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Blown Away: 8 Tips for Using Pneumatic Tools Safely

 

In 2019, the global pneumatic tool market was worth almost $40 billion. And it's no wonder.

 

Pneumatic tools offer more power, torque, and RPM than equivalent electrical tools. They're more reliable, with fewer moving parts than electrical tools. And they're more energy-efficient, costing less to run.

 

Pneumatic tools need to be used with care, however. There’s a risk of serious injury if pneumatic tools are not used safely—as with any power tool.

 

Read on as we take a look at some essential safety tips for using pneumatic tools.

1. Familiarize Yourself With the Manual of Pneumatic Tools

The first piece of advice is a workplace safety tip that applies to all power equipment: read the manual.

 

You may have used pneumatic air tools before. You may even have used a similar tool from the same manufacturer before. However, no two tools are exactly the same, and it's vital you know the safest way to use the device in your hands.

 

Study the manual carefully before using any pneumatic tool for the first time. Make sure to pay close attention to any safety information in the manual—and read all the information on the correct methods of usage, too. The manual will also contain important information about the air pressure your pneumatic air tools requires.

2. Use Proper PPE of Pneumatic Tools

Even if you follow usage instructions to the letter, accidents can happen with any power tool. That's why it's essential to wear the appropriate personal protective equipment.

 

You should always wear safety goggles or glasses at a minimum, or even a full face shield. Safety boots may also be necessary.

 

Pneumatic tools will often generate significant noise levels. If you're using them for prolonged periods, you should wear ear protection.

3. Follow Air Pressure Guidelines of Pneumatic Tools

All air tools will be rated to operate within a specific pressure range. This information will be clearly stated in the manual.

 

If you operate outside the rated pressure of the best air impact wrench, then, at best, your best air impact wrench isn't going to work as effectively as it should. At worst, you're at risk of a serious accident that could cause severe injury.

 

You should never use a best air impact wrench outside of its rated air pressure.

4. Understand the Trigger System of Pneumatic Tools

Most pneumatic tools will have some form of trigger that you can use to operate the tool. Without applying this trigger, the tool will not operate. However, there are many different triggers, so it's essential to know exactly how the trigger on your tool works before you start using it.

 

Full-sequential actuation triggers require the completion of a sequence of actions, such as depressing the safety tip and then pulling the trigger, before each actuation of the tool. In comparison, with a single-sequential actuation trigger, once the safety tip is depressed, the tool will actuate with every subsequent squeeze of the trigger.

 

You must know exactly how the trigger system of your pneumatic tool works to use it safely and effectively.

5. Never Carry Tools By the Hose of Pneumatic Tools

When working with pneumatic air tools, it's tempting to carry them around by the hose that connects them to the air pressure generator. This may feel like a safe option since you're not touching the tool itself.

 

However, carrying tools by the hose can have serious consequences. If the hose becomes damaged or partially disconnected, you may end up in a situation where the hose starts to whip around on its own, which can be incredibly dangerous.

 

Ideally, you should disconnect the hose if you want to carry the tool around and move each part separately.

6. Inspect the Hose Regularly of Pneumatic Tools

Even if you don't carry your pneumatic tools around by the hose, the hose can still become damaged with regular use. No hose is designed to last forever.

 

That's why it's imperative to inspect any hoses used with pneumatic air tools regularly. If you find any evidence of damage, you should replace the hose immediately and ensure that it is not used with any other pneumatic tools. Even if you are using a pneumatic tool safely and sensibly, a damaged hose can lead to an accident that you won't be able to prevent.

7. Don't Make Any Modifications of Pneumatic Tools

Sometimes you might not have quite the right pneumatic tool for the job. In this case, you may be tempted to make some modifications to the tool to complete the job.

 

However, this can be incredibly dangerous.

 

Pneumatic air tools are built with safety in mind. Any modifications you make could lead to unwanted behavior, such as unintentional firing, putting you and your co-workers at risk. You're also likely to void any warranties on your pneumatic equipment.

8. Disconnect From the Supply When Not in Use of Pneumatic Tools

It's a simple tip, but one that is easy to forget. When you're not using your pneumatic air tools, you should disconnect them from the hose and air compressor and put all of them away safely.

 

Leaving your pneumatic tool connected to the pump risks the tool being unintentionally fired. Leaving connected air hoses draped across the workspace can also create dangerous trip hazards. Always ensure that all the equipment used is safely and correctly stored away after each use.

Are You Looking For Pneumatic Air Tools for Your Business?

If you're looking to source pneumatic air tools for your supply business, we're here to help.

 

Hand Tools International (HTI) is one of the leading distributors in the hand tools field, providing personal protection equipment and electrical tools. Our experienced engineers and designers coordinate with customers to develop hand tool products and packaging to meet your unique specifications. We excel at providing high-quality hand tools and services which meet our customers’ needs.

 

What’s more, HTI is a total solution provider for hand tools. We offer a complete service from sourcing requests, hand tools product development, hand tools packaging design, final product inspection, and shipment consolidation.
 

Take a look at our full range of products today.

 

 

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