# Power tool safety

URL: https://hardhatbinder.com/en/toolbox-talks/power-tool-safety
Last updated: 2026-10-23

We use power tools on every job, every day. Saws, grinders, drills and nail guns can cut, crush or blind you in a split second. A few quick checks before you pull the trigger keep everyone working with all their fingers and eyes.

## Key points

1. Inspect the tool before you use it. Look for cracked housings, damaged cords, missing ground pins and loose parts. If it's damaged, tag it out and turn it in.
2. Keep guards in place and working. Never pin back or remove the guard on a saw or grinder.
3. Unplug the tool or pull the battery before changing blades, bits or discs, and before clearing a jam.
4. Use the right blade or wheel for the tool and the material, and check that the wheel is rated for the tool's speed.
5. Never carry a tool by its cord or hose, and never yank the cord to unplug it. Keep cords out of walkways, water and sharp edges.
6. With nail guns, keep your hand away from the firing line and never point the tool at anyone. Disconnect the air before you walk away or clear a jam.
7. Wear safety glasses every time, plus a face shield, hearing protection and gloves when the task calls for it. Secure your work with clamps so both hands control the tool.

## Talk it over

- Which tool on this site do you think is the most dangerous, and why?
- Have you seen a guard tied back or a damaged cord still in use here? What should we do about it?
- Where are cords and hoses creating trip hazards on our site right now?

> **Remember:** Check it, guard it, unplug it before you touch the blade.

## Official sources

- [29 CFR 1926.300](https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-29/section-1926.300) — Hand and power tools — general requirements
- [29 CFR 1926.302](https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-29/section-1926.302) — Power-operated hand tools

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Source: HardHat Binder, operated by Leadspire LLC. Templates to be reviewed by a competent person before use; not legal advice; not affiliated with OSHA.