Tool and Equipment Safety

Tools & Equipment
English (NZ)

The Problem

Tools and equipment are essential for getting the job done, but improper selection, use, or maintenance can result in serious injury, downtime, or even fatalities. Electrical hazards, damaged tools, and bypassed safety features are all common—and preventable—causes of incidents. Today, we’ll highlight common tool hazards, outline WorkSafe NZ requirements, and discuss how to prevent injuries through good safety practices.

Identify the Hazards

  • Using the Wrong Tool: Selecting an inappropriate tool for the job can lead to failure or injury.

  • Bypassing Safety Features: Removing guards or disabling safety devices increases risk of cuts, electrocution, or other harm.

  • Damaged Equipment: Tools with frayed cords, cracked casings, or faulty mechanisms may fail without warning.

  • Improper Storage: Exposure to moisture, dust, or impact damage can cause tools to deteriorate.

  • Electrical Hazards: Using tools in wet areas without RCD protection or proper earthing.
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  • Inadequate PPE: Not wearing suitable gloves, eye protection, or hearing protection when using tools.

Safety Practices and Preventative Measures

Tool Selection

  • Conduct a hazard assessment before selecting a tool.
  • Check the tool’s suitability for the job, including voltage rating and compatibility with site conditions.
  • Choose tools with ergonomic handles or anti-vibration features when needed.
  • Only trained or competent persons should use certain types of equipment.

Pre-Use Inspection

Before using any tool, check for:

  • Frayed cords or exposed wires.
  • Missing or damaged guards, cracked housings, or worn parts.
  • Issues with safety switches or emergency stops.
  • Calibration problems for measuring or testing tools.

Document inspections for power tools or equipment used for high-risk work.

Damaged Equipment Procedures

  • Tag the tool with “Do Not Use” and remove it from service immediately.
  • Report the issue to your supervisor.
  • Follow your company’s process for repairs or replacements.
  • Investigate and correct the root cause to avoid a repeat incident.

Safe Power Tool Operation

  • Never operate tools without safety features or guards in place.
  • Follow electrical safety protocols:

    • Use RCDs (Residual Current Devices) for all electrical tools.
    • Check cords and plugs for damage.
    • Use tools with double insulation or ensure they’re properly earthed.
  • Always wear the appropriate PPE:

    • Safety glasses or face shields for flying debris.
    • Hearing protection for noisy tools.
    • Gloves suitable for the task (ensure they don’t introduce new risks).

Proper Storage

  • Store tools in a clean, dry area away from corrosive or flammable materials.
  • Secure them from unauthorised use or theft.
  • Keep tools organised to prevent damage or tripping hazards.

Real-Life Case or Scenario

Where possible, use an actual incident that you have experienced or been involved in.

A worker removed the safety guard from a handheld grinder to speed up the job. The grinding wheel shattered during use, and fragments struck the worker’s face and hands. While the worker had safety glasses on, the lack of a guard meant the injuries were far worse than they should have been. This incident reinforces the importance of keeping safety features in place at all times.

Employee Responsibilities

  • Select the correct tool for the task.

  • Conduct pre-use inspections.

  • Tag and report damaged tools immediately.

  • Use tools only as intended and follow operating instructions.

  • Wear the required PPE.
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  • Store tools correctly after use.

Employer Responsibilities

  • Supply safe and appropriate tools for the work being carried out.

  • Remove faulty or damaged tools from service promptly.

  • Provide regular training on tool safety, including selection, inspection, and use.
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  • Supply and enforce use of PPE relevant to the tools being used.

Discussion & Questions

  • “What common tool-related hazards have you seen on site?”
  • “Have you seen someone using the wrong tool for the job? What happened?”
  • “Are there any tools you think require extra training or inspection?”

Encourage the team to speak up—everyone’s input helps improve site safety.

Commitment/Action Plan

Let’s commit to checking our tools every day before use, never bypassing safety features, and reporting anything unsafe. It only takes a moment to do the right thing—and it could prevent a serious injury.

Wrap-Up

Tools make the job possible, but only when used safely. By selecting the right tool, inspecting it thoroughly, and following safe practices, we can ensure a safe and productive work environment. Thanks for taking the time to prioritise safety today.

Standards Overview

Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 and WorkSafe NZ’s guidance on safe use of tools and equipment:

  • Employers must ensure all tools and equipment are:

    • Safe for use, regularly inspected, and properly maintained.
    • Used by competent workers trained in their safe operation.
    • Equipped with guards or safety features, which must not be removed or tampered with.
  • Workers must:

    • Use appropriate PPE (gloves, eye/face protection, hearing protection).
    • Follow safe operating procedures.‍
    • Report hazards or damaged equipment immediately.

Disclaimer

These toolbox talks are provided for informational and educational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional legal, health and safety, or regulatory advice.

The content reflects recognised best practices and general industry standards as at the date of publication. However, it may not be applicable to all workplace environments or specific operational contexts.

It is the responsibility of the Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU), as well as officers, workers, and other duty holders under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA), to ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and WorkSafe New Zealand guidance.

The authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk disclaim all liability for any loss, damage, or injury arising from the use or reliance on the information provided. Users should seek advice from a suitably qualified health and safety professional or legal advisor for guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.

Always follow your organisation’s policies, procedures, and safe work practices to manage risks and maintain a safe and healthy workplace.

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Last Updated:
May 12, 2025