Axes

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Axes
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Axes

• OSHA classifies axes as a Hand Tool

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Axes

• According to OSHA 1926.300a
• All Hand tools whether furnished by the employer
  or the employee shall be maintained in safe
  condition.

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Axes

• The greatest hazards posed by hand tools result
  from misuse and improper maintenance.
• In order to eliminate these hazards which have
  the possibility of leading to an accident axes
  should be inspected before each use and should be
  used for their intended purpose.

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Axes

• OSHA 1926.301 states
• Employers shall not issue or permit the use of
  unsafe hand tools.
• d) The wooden handles of tools shall be kept free
  of splinters or cracks and shall be kept tight in
  the tool.

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Axes

• If a splinter or crack is present on the handle
  of an axe it can lead the head of tool to loosen
  and possibly dislodge forming a dangerous
  projectile.

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Axes

• A safe alternative is an axe with a strong
  plastic handle which is much less likely to crack
  allowing the head to dislodge.

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Axes

• Appropriate safety equipment should be used when
  wielding an ax.
• Goggles will protect the eyes from any material
  strewn about while using the axe.
• Gloves with a good gripping material on the palms
  and fingers of the glove will protect the hands
  from blisters and will decrease the chance of the
  axe slipping out of the wielders hands.

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Axes

• The floors in areas where heavy tools such as
  axes are being used should be kept as clean and
  dry as possible to prevent any accidental slips.

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Axes

• If an axe is to be used around flammable
  substances it should be made of a spark resistant
  material such as brass or aluminum in order to
  avoid a possible explosion.

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Axes

• When a worker is using an axe the area around him
  should be kept clear in order to ensure nobody is
  accidentally hit with the axe.

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Axes

• To prevent ax axe from being snared in clothing
  the wielder should not wear scarves, ties,
  lanyards or any loose clothing.

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Axes

• Never use a blunt axe as it may bounce off the
  material being cut but may still penetrate flesh.

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Axes

• Most importantly read the safety instructions for
  the individual axe and do not use it for any
  purpose other than what it is intended for.