OSHA 10-Hour Construction ReviewTools - Hand and PowerMedium
A worker is preparing to use a powder-actuated tool to fasten a sill plate to concrete. Which of the following is a mandatory step before operating the tool?
- ATesting the material to ensure it is not too hard or brittle for the fastener.
- BConfirming the tool is equipped with an automatic fastener feeding system.
- COperating the tool in an area with a minimum clearance of 10 feet in all directions.
- DEnsuring the tool is lubricated with a special high-temperature grease.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Testing the material to ensure it is not too hard or brittle for the fastener.
Before using a powder-actuated tool, the operator must test the material to ensure it is suitable for the fastener. Driving a fastener into overly hard or brittle material can cause it to ricochet, pass through, or shatter the material, creating a severe hazard.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Automatic feeding systems are a convenience feature, not a mandatory safety requirement for all powder-actuated tools.
- C. While clear space is important, a specific 10-foot clearance isn't a universal mandatory pre-operation step; the primary concern is material suitability.
- D. Lubrication is part of maintenance, but not a mandatory pre-operation safety check for material suitability.
Powder-Actuated Tool Material Suitability
Before using a powder-actuated tool, the material to be fastened into must be tested to ensure it is suitable (not too hard or brittle) for the fastener.
- Testing prevents ricocheting fasteners.
- Testing prevents fasteners from passing through the material.
- Testing prevents material from shattering.
Memory trick: Before you shoot, check the material's root!