Drill Safety
Drills are a common tool used both in the home and in many workplaces. They can be used for simple projects, such as mounting a frame to a wall, or for more complex construction applications. Drills are powerful pieces of equipment that can cause injury if they are not operated properly or are defective. Knowing how to protect yourself from injury and how to correctly use a drill can minimize your chance of an accident.
Drill Safety Gear
Remember that when you are using a drill, you are operating a power tool that is capable of boring holes through wood, metal, and other hard materials. Unprotected skin that comes into contact with a drill bit will immediately be burned or torn. It is therefore important to wear the following safety gear to protect yourself from injury
- Safety glasses that fit firmly against your face from all sides
- Tight fitting long sleeve shirt and long pants (loose fitting clothes can get caught up in the drill)
- Tight fitting gloves to protect from burns (Do not wear loose or oversized gloves; these can be snagged by the drill bit)
- A mask to prevent inhalation of residual dust or chemicals
Operating a Drill
When you are ready to begin drilling, always consider the safety of the conditions in which you are working. If you are standing on a ladder to drill, be sure that the ladder’s four legs are in contact with the ground and have someone hold the ladder steady while you are drilling. Start drilling slowly at your marked point and then increase the speed as the hole is started. Beginning at a high speed could cause the drill to slip. If the drill meets resistance or gets stuck, do not force it. Work slowly and methodically so that the drill does not slip or overheat.
Following these simple safety guidelines can minimize your risk of a drill injury. If you or someone you know has been injured by a defective drill or irresponsible drill operator, consider talking with a personal injury lawyer immediately. Someone may be liable for your injuries and you may be entitled to compensation.
Contact Us
For more information on drill accidents and injury liability, please contact experienced Austin personal injury lawyer Vic Feazell today at 877-948-4842.
