OSHA 10-Hour Construction ReviewTools - Hand and PowerMedium
A worker is using a non-powered hand tool, specifically a hammer, to drive nails. Which of the following conditions of the hammer is most likely to cause injury and requires immediate removal from service?
- AA handle made of hardwood instead of fiberglass.
- BA loose hammer head or a cracked handle.
- CA slightly worn face on the hammer head.
- DA hammer that is slightly heavier than typically used.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. A loose hammer head or a cracked handle.
A loose hammer head can fly off and strike someone, while a cracked handle can break during use, causing the worker to lose control or be struck by the head. Both are severe hazards requiring immediate action.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Hardwood handles are common and acceptable; material choice (hardwood vs. fiberglass) is not inherently unsafe if the handle is sound.
- C. A slightly worn face might reduce efficiency but doesn't pose an immediate, severe safety hazard like a loose head or cracked handle.
- D. A slightly heavier hammer might cause fatigue but is not an immediate safety hazard requiring removal from service.
Hand Tool Defect Safety
Hand tools with defects such as loose heads, cracked handles, or mushroomed striking surfaces must be immediately removed from service to prevent serious injury to the user or others.
- Loose heads can fly off.
- Cracked handles can break.
- Defective tools must be tagged out and repaired/replaced.
Memory trick: Head loose, handle cracked, get it fixed, or get attacked!