Safety Tip of the Week – Nail Gun Safety

In construction activities, nail guns have replaced the common hammers in wood framing. They are very easy to operate device and powerful. They boost productivity for most nailing tasks. But nail guns are still a leading cause of injury among residential carpenters and are responsible for an estimated 37,00 emergency room visits each year.

Puncture wounds to the hands and fingers are most common, but more serious injuries and deaths occur using nail guns.

How can We Reduce the Risk and Help Prevent Nail Gun Injuries?

• ONLY use a nail gun with a single shot and full sequential trigger;
• ALWAYS provide initial and refresher training for this dangerous gun;
• IMMEDIATELY establish the work procedures needed to work safely in workplace tasks;
• PROVIDE proper personal protective equipment, including eye, face and hand protection;
• ALWAYS report injuries and illnesses;
• DISCUSS workplace and industry injuries and near misses; and
• SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION no matter how minimal the injury may appear.

YOU HIT THE NAIL ON THE HEAD…NAIL GUNS ARE DANGEROUS!