Standard Operating

Procedure
Portable Power
Shop Supervisor: Date Approved:

Portable Power Tools

Portable power tools help us easily perform
tasks that otherwise would be difficult or
impossible.
However, they often pose risk of lacerations,
contusions, and muscle strain. Power tools in
particular pose a higher risk of severe injury
because points of contact can transfer a large
amount of mechanical energy from the tool to
small areas on the body. In addition, users of
power tools may also be exposed to hazardous
airborne contaminants, flying debris, and
electrocution, among other risks.

Personal Protective Equipment

Tie Back Closed Eye/ Hearing Gloves

Respirato
Hair & Toe Face Protectio ry
Secure Shoes Protectio n Protectio
Loose n
n
Items
Tie back long Appropriate Wear ANSI Z87.1 Hearing Depending on Respiratory
the
hair and enclosed compliant safety protection should tool, gloves protection (e.g.
secure can
loose clothing footwear should goggles to be worn when either help dust masks) may
that could get be worn. protect eyes. noise levels are provide grip and be desired or
caught in Face shields may excessive. protection or can required.
rotating parts. be necessary to get caught in Contact EH&S for
Remove rings protect from rotating parts. guidance.
and
other jewelry. dust, shards, and Use gloves when
debris. appropriate.

Potential Hazards
Be aware of the following potential hazards when working with portable power tools:
● Mechanical: points of operation, pinch points, shear points, power transmission
points
● Operational: heat, dust/chips/shards, noise, unstable loads/stocks
● Chemical: cleaning solvents, lubricants

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 Standard Operating
Procedure
Portable Power
● Electrical/Energy Sources: exposed wiring, malfunctioning or damaged
equipment, unexpected start up/shut down

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 Standard Operating
Procedure
Portable Power

Before Use
● Use the right tool for the job. For example, do not use a screwdriver as a
chisel. Do not attempt to modify or adapt a tool to extend its capabilities.
● Know the location of start and stop switches or buttons.
● Do not eat or drink in work areas.
● Inspect every tool before use and remove damaged or defective tools from
service. Do not use tools with defective, broken, or compromised handles,
guards, or ancillary parts (e.g. warped, dull, or cracked blades, marred or
chipped drill bits, checked hoses, frayed cords, sprung gripping surfaces,
mushroomed heads, etc.). Report any unsafe conditions observed on the tool
to the shop supervisor.
● If the tool you are using produces dusts or fumes, be familiar with how to
operate the local exhaust ventilation (LEV) system, if equipped, and turn it
on before beginning work. Ensure that the LEV is well maintained to work
effectively. Always make sure that you have adequate ventilation when
using or refueling gasoline-powered tools.
● Minimize ancillary hazards in the work space. For example, remove
accumulated debris or tools to prevent trips or falls, dry or clean up slippery
surfaces, use portable lighting in poorly lit areas, etc. Non-sparking or
intrinsically safe tools may be required in the presence of flammable
materials, especially vapors.
● Check the Safety Data Sheet for potential health hazards of specific
materials (e.g., western red cedar) and chemicals (e.g., lubricants,
solvents). Additionally, ensure that the stock you are cutting is free
of nails, screws, or other metallic objects.
● Ensure that tool guards are in place and recommended personal protective
equipment is worn.
○ If adjustments or maintenance (such as adding oil or changing out
ancillary parts) are needed, unplug the power before adjusting.
● Determine whether you will need additional equipment or supports, such
as clamps, vices, sawhorses, or stands.
● Be cautious when a cutting operation requires locating fingers close to a
blade. It is a best practice to keep hands at least 4 inches away from the
blade.

During Use
● Concentrate on the task at hand; avoid distractions. Most injuries
occur when the operator is not paying full attention to what they are
doing.
● Do not carry a tool by the hose or cord, and do not yank on a cord to
disconnect the tool from the receptacle. Firmly grasp the plug.
● Avoid accidental starting. Ensure that the tool is in the “off” position before
plugging in, and do not hold fingers on the switch button while carrying a
plugged-in tool.
● Use portable power tools only with properly placed, adjusted, and
functioning guards. In general, the exposed moving parts of power tools
need to be safeguarded.
● Keep hoses and cords away from heat, oil, and sharp edges.
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 Standard Operating
Procedure
Portable Power
● To protect the user from shock and burns, electric tools must have a
cord with a grounded plug and be plugged into a grounded receptacle or
be double-insulated. Report any tools with non-grounded plugs to the
shop supervisor.
● Do not use electric tools in damp or wet locations unless they are
approved for that purpose.

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 Standard Operating
Procedure
Portable Power
● Keep all people not involved with the work at a safe distance away from the area.
● Secure work with clamps or a vise, freeing both hands to operate the tool.
● When using pneumatic tools, a safety clip or retainer must be installed
to prevent attachments from being ejected during tool operation.
● Don’t force tools if they get stuck or jammed. Turn off the power, unplug the
tool, and attempt to release the mechanism by hand. If you are unsuccessful,
alert the shop supervisor.

After Use
● Shut off the power and unplug the tool and ensure that it is ready for the
next person to use. Wait for moving parts, such as blades or drill bits, to
completely stop on their own; do not attempt to use your hands to stop
movement.
● Turn off the LEV, if equipped, and prepare it for the next use.
● Sweep or use a shop vacuum to collect any debris that resulted from
cutting on the floor or other surfaces. Avoid cleaning with compressed air
to prevent injury.
● Store stock materials in a neat and secured manner; do not
accumulate excess combustibles. Keep aisles and exits clear.
● Wash hands and exposed skin thoroughly after completing work and before
leaving the shop area.

Emergency Equipment and Procedures

● Report all incidents to the shop supervisor, including injuries, equipment
damage, and near misses.
● Know the location of the nearest emergency equipment and items,
such as the emergency stop/shut-off for the specific machine, eye
wash, first aid kit, fire extinguishers, fire alarm pull stations, and
emergency exits.

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 Standard Operating
Procedure
Portable Power

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 Standard Operating
Procedure
Portable Power
By signing and dating the log below, individuals are certifying that they have been
informed and understand this Standard Operating Procedure and agree to abide by
its contents.

Name Signature Date

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