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Pneumatic Nailers

Safety Toolbox Talk Webmaster
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Pneumatic nailers are a staple of the construction industry. These nail guns, powered by compressed air, cause many injuries to the hands and feet. More serious injuries to the eyes, neck, heart and brain have also occurred.

Also known as nailers, pneumatic hammers and air-powered hammers, these tools are rightly called guns because they apply a large amount of energy to a small projectile. As such, they should be treated and handled with the same kind of care as a weapon.

Here is an example of how things can go wrong when nail guns are used incorrectly:

A worker known to be fast at his job was walking along a timber framework placing a series of nails. He used one hand to hold the job and walked with the trigger depressed, using the pressure on the muzzle guard to activate the tool. He nailed his hand to the wood.

Use these safety tips to prevent injuries:

Pneumatic nailers are among many kinds of equipment powered by compressed air. All these tools require caution to prevent injuries.


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