Preventing Nail Gun Injuries
May 30, 2013 No CommentsPneumatic nails guns are used extensively in manufacturing industries to make skids and pallets. Also, they are used every day on many construction jobs – especially in residential construction.
Nail gun injuries are common – one study found that there are 37,000 emergency room visits each year in the U.S.A. due to nail guns!
Research has identified the risk factors that make nail gun injuries more likely to occur. The type of trigger system and the extent of training are important factors. The risk of a nail gun injury is twice as high when using a multi-shot contact trigger as when using a single-shot sequential trigger.
OSHA has a 20-page guideline on nail gun safety. Click here to download a copy. This publication discusses:
- the types of nail gun triggers
- common causes of nail gun accidents
- recommended safety training
- safe work procedures
- recommended PPE (personal protective equipment)
- reporting practices
- first aid and medical treatment
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