Pneumatic Nailer/Stapler
Whether you have used a pneumatic nail gun before or are using one for the first time, it is important to understand the safety rules for this type of tool. Pneumatic nail guns work by utilizing compressed air to propel a piston to drive a nail or fastener into a material. Pneumatic nail guns are powerful and dangerous. Nailers fire projectiles at high speed—some designs launch nails at speeds reaching 1,400 feet per second. Nails may ricochet if they hit a knot or dense material.
Pneumatic nailer accidents continue to be a major source of jobsite injuries. Generally, when people injure themselves or others it is a result of lack of concentration and/or using the tool in a manner considered inappropriate or unsafe.
Below are some general operating principles and some of the more important safety issues to keep in mind for using a nailer/stapler. Before using the tool, be sure to thoroughly read and understand the manufacturer’s operating manual. Always wear eye protection and any other personal protective equipment recommended by the manufacturer. Be aware of the presence and location of other workers or visitors before operating the tool.
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Learn to properly handle, load and operate the tool.
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Familiarize yourself with all operating features and safety requirements for your particular tool.
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Carry nailers only by the handle; never by the hose.
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Keep your finger off the trigger when not fastening.
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Keep hands and other body parts clear of immediate work area.
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Keep face and body parts away from the back of the tool cap when working in restricted areas—sudden recoil will occur when tool is actuated.
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Make sure nose guard is in place and operates properly.
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Check for damage to the nailer body.
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Do not alter or modify the tool from the original design.
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Always assume the nailer is loaded with fasteners.
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Use only manufacturer approved fasteners and disconnect from air line before loading.
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Follow the manufacturer's recommended air pressure and air hose diameters.
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Only fire the tool when you have stable footing, good balance, are not in an awkward position and the tool is in firm contact with the work surface.
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Do not drive fasteners near the edge of material.
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Testing suggests 35 degrees as the shallowest safe angle for toe-nailing.
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Store idle tools out of the reach of children and other untrained people.
Double-firing
Double-firing occurs when a nailer bounces off of the work surface and then by resisting this recoil action, hits the surface again firing a second nail. The problem is that the second shot can go out of control and hit you or someone else before you realize what happened. Double-firing often happens when a person is in an awkward position to control and fire the nailer, overreaching, or not holding the nailer properly. Take the time to get into a safe and stable position before you start nailing.
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