Brett McCutcheon, General Manager, FASCO America
Pneumatic tools are beloved by contractors for their efficiency and ease of use, but those who have not yet worked with them might need some help and guidance. Missteps with these tools can be both costly and painful, so proceed with caution on the first few projects. If you are new to pneumatics, here are some safe practices to follow.
First you should train your employees in the use of all tools, not just power tools. They need to understand the possible hazards and how to minimize them from happening. Next you should consider your employee’s individual comfort. Make sure all your workers are equipped with clothing and gear to keep them warm or cool and dry, plus encourage them to bring along an extra set of clothes in case anything gets wet. Other safety precautions include training your team to be aware of the signs of heat stroke and dehydration, as well as hypothermia. Have an emergency plan for any and all injuries. Make sure to provide plenty of cool water and breaks in an appropriately cooled or heated area. Lastly, try to schedule jobs during the most comfortable part of the days. This will help your employees and tools run smoother with less mishaps.
One of the first things you’ll want to do is to review the manufacturer’s instructions on use of the tool and follow them very closely. If the tool you are using for the job has been previously used, be sure to check for any damage. Before you start using any tool or machinery make sure you are wearing protective equipment such as safety goggles and gloves if needed.
In chilly weather you’ll want to check and warm all machinery and tools and ensure they’re working properly. Cold temperatures can affect the equipment, especially the electrical wires and hoses which can become brittle. Remember to keep your tools clean and in good repair and they will keep working, even in extreme temperatures.
When powering through a project, it’s easy to forget to reload the magazine. However, it’s better to reload before the tool has run out of fasteners because it may still fire and leave a dimple in the wood. This is because the driver will come forward and slam directly into the wood, which will cause some damage. Additionally, it can damage the tool itself, so make sure you’re checking reload indicators throughout the project to avoid potentially expensive mishaps.
Although not all pins come with a “this end up” label, many do. Pins do not have a crown or head, and it can be difficult to determine which end is the point. Most manufacturers will include an arrow or other type of symbol that labels the point of the fastener. It’s important to pay attention to this detail because loading pins incorrectly will not allow the fastener to drive completely into the wood. If done repeatedly, the point of the pin can cause damage to the driver, which will make the tool perform less effectively.
The general rule is “less is more” when it comes to pneumatics. While these tools tend to require a bit of force to depress the nose tip, too much pressure can have some adverse effects on the surrounding wood. Excess pressure will cause the nose to strike the wood twice, which will leave an extra dimple near the fastener site. Some nailers don’t require any force at all, so when in doubt, use a light touch.
Many contractors have been scorned by a rogue nail, so keep your fingers out of harm’s way to avoid injury. Fine fasteners tend to follow the wood’s grain, and from time to time the fastener will blow out the side of the joint. Knowing that, keep fingers away from potential off-course paths. To prevent wandering nails, fire them perpendicular to the grain. Also be sure that the tools are being directed away from aisle areas and from other employees who are working in close proximity.
Pneumatic tools are not the right fit for every project; but they are safer, more light weight, and oftentimes more affordable than leading alternatives. For someone new to pneumatic tools, it’s important to understand what projects these tools are appropriate for, and above all, how to use them safely and effectively. With the above tips, using your new pneumatic will be a breeze.
Starting with Bostitch in 1994, Brett has 25 years of industry experience with the last 21 years being at FASCO America, the North American distribution company of the BECK Fastener Group.
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