Hand tools are used in almost every workplace, from construction sites and manufacturing facilities to farms, warehouses, maintenance departments and workshops. Whilst they may appear less hazardous than powered equipment, hand tools can still cause serious injuries when they are poorly maintained, used incorrectly or selected for the wrong task.
Employers have a legal duty to ensure that hand tools are safe to use and that employees receive appropriate information, instruction, training and supervision. Effective hand tool safety helps prevent workplace injuries, improves productivity and supports compliance with Health & Safety legislation.
With experience providing Health & Safety services across a range of sectors, we've produced an expert guide discussing the safe use of hand tools.
Why is hand tool safety important?
Every year, workers suffer injuries involving hand tools, including cuts, puncture wounds, crush injuries, eye injuries, strains and musculoskeletal disorders. Many of these incidents occur because tools are damaged, used incorrectly, poorly maintained or unsuitable for the task being undertaken.
Using hand tools safely reduces the risk of injury while helping employees complete work more efficiently and to a higher standard.
What are an employer's legal responsibilities?
The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 requires employers to protect the health, safety and welfare of employees and anyone affected by their activities.
In relation to hand tools, employers should:
Provide tools that are suitable for the task
Ensure tools are maintained in safe condition
Assess risks associated with their use
Provide appropriate information, instruction and training
Implement safe systems of work
Provide suitable personal protective equipment where required
Monitor workplace activities to ensure safe working practices are followed
Where hand tools are classed as work equipment, employers may also have duties under the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) to ensure equipment remains suitable, maintained and safe to use.
Selecting the right tool for the job
One of the most effective ways to prevent injuries is by ensuring employees use the correct tool for the task.
Common hand tools include:
Screwdrivers
Hammers
Pliers
Adjustable spanners
Wrenches
Chisels
Utility kniveds
Saws
Files
Measuring equipment
Using the wrong tool often increases the likelihood of slips, breakages and personal injury. For example, using a screwdriver as a chisel or a spanner as a hammer can damage both the tool and the workpiece while significantly increasing the risk of injury.
Employees should always be provided with tools that are designed and manufactured for the task being undertaken.
Inspect hand tools before use
Hand tools should be visually inspected before use to identify defects that could compromise safety.
Employees should look for:
Cracked or damaged handles
Loose heads on hammers or mallets
Damaged cutting edges
Bent or broken components
Excessive wear
Signs of corrosion
Missing safety features
Defective tools should be removed from service immediately and either repaired by a competent person or replaced. Regular inspections help prevent unexpected failures that could lead to injury.
Common hand tool hazards
Although hand tools are relatively simple pieces of equipment, they can expose workers to a range of hazards.
Typical hazards include:
Cuts and lacerations
Sharp blades, saws, chisels and knives can cause serious cuts if handled incorrectly or used without appropriate safeguards.
Eye Injuries
Flying particles, splinters, metal fragments or debris can cause eye injuries when cutting, striking or scraping materials.
Hand and finger injuries
Workers can suffer hand and finger crush injuries, pinch points and impact injuries when using striking tools, pliers or spanners.
Musculoskeletal injuries
Poor technique, repetitive movements and excessive force can contribute to strains, sprains and other musculoskeletal disorders.
Slips and loss of control from damaged tools, oily handles or unsuitable working conditions can cause tools to slip, potentially injuring the user or others nearby.
Employers should consider these hazards during risk assessments and implement appropriate control measures.
Safe use of hand tools
Employees should follow safe working practices whenever hand tools are used. Good practice includes:
Using the correct tool for the job
Following manufacturer instructions where applicable
Maintaining a secure grip
Using tools only for their intended purpose
Keeping cutting edges sharp and properly maintained
Ensuring workpieces are securely supported
Keeping hands and body parts away from cutting paths
Maintaining good housekeeping standards within the work area
Storing tools safely when not in use
Workers should avoid applying excessive force or modifying tools in ways that could compromise their safety.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) may be required where risks cannot be adequately controlled through other measures.
Depending on the task, suitable PPE may include:
Safety glasses or goggles
Cut-resistant gloves
Safety footwear
Hearing protection
Protective clothing
PPE should be selected based on the risks identified during the assessment process and should be suitable for both the worker and the task being undertaken. Proper maintenance extends the life of hand tools and helps ensure they remain safe and effective.
Employers should ensure:
Tools are cleaned after use
Moving parts are lubricated where necessary
Damaged tools are repaired or replaced
Storage arrangements prevent damage and deterioration
Inspection records are maintained where appropriate
Tools should be stored in designated locations that protect them from moisture, damage and unauthorised use. Even simple hand tools require users to understand the risks involved and how to use them safely.
Employers should provide suitable training covering:
Tool selection
Pre-use inspections
Safe operating techniques
PPE requirements
Reporting defects
Storage and maintenance procedures
Workers should also be supervised until they demonstrate the competency required to carry out their tasks safely. Training and supervision are fundamental legal requirements for workplace health and safety.
Benefits of effective hand tool safety management
When hand tools are managed correctly, businesses can benefit from:
Fewer workplace injuries
Reduced absence due to workplace accidents
Improved productivity
Better quality workmanship
Lower equipment replacement costs
Enhanced legal compliance
Improved employee confidence and morale
Small improvements in hand tool management can have a significant impact on workplace safety performance.
Unlock support for the safe use of hand tools with Peninsula's Health & Safety services
Managing hand tool safety is an important part of maintaining a safe and compliant workplace. Peninsula's Health & Safety experts can help you identify risks, implement effective control measures and ensure your legal obligations are met.
Whether you operate a construction company, manufacturing facility, farm, warehouse or maintenance business, Peninsula can help you create safer working environments and reduce the risk of workplace injuries. Contact us today to find out how our health and safety specialists can support your organisation.
