SOP for Safe use of Power Tools

PURPOSE

The purpose of this SOP is to ensure that portable powered tools meet minimum safety requirements, are used in a safe manner and for the intended purposes, and are maintained in a safe condition.

SCOPE

This SOP applies to all PharmaInfo facilities and operations globally. The requirements of this standard apply to all employees, managers, contractors, temporary employees, and visitors. Tools considered portable powered tools include:

• Electrical tools (portable & fixed drilling machines, grinders, cutters, hacksaws, blowers, electrically operated concrete vibrators etc.)
• Working on liquid fuel (gasoline, diesel etc. like concrete vibrators)
• Pneumatic tools (operated by compressed air like pneumatic hammers etc.)
• Explosive or power-actuated tools (cartridge operated)
• Hydraulic tools (like power press)

EXPECTATIONS

• The site Engineering Head shall ensure that all the powered tools in the sites are maintained in good condition and used in a safe way.
• The engineering Head shall ensure that the powered tools are used only through the Permit to Work System.

• The engineering Head shall ensure that the powered tools used on the site should be inspected prior to use as per guidelines.
• The site Engineering Head shall identify the competent person for using the power tool on the site and ensure he should only use the power tools.
• The site Engineering Head shall ensure that only GFCI and certified tools are used at the site. Non-certified tools shall be prohibited.
• The site Engineering Head shall ensure the right tools are used for the right job and tools used are not altered in any way which poses a safety hazard.
• EHS team shall provide training to the Power tool used for the safe use of the power tools. Training should also consist of do's and Don'ts with the power tools.
• EHS team also cross-checks all the site-owned power tools are inspected periodically and managed with an appropriate label. If any tools are overdue for inspection they shall be notified to the site engineering team.
• The site engineering team shall ensure all the site-owned powered tools are inspected periodically and labels are maintained appropriately.
• The site engineering team shall also identify the tools with defects and remove them from service until the defect got fixed.
• EHS Head shall ensure all the contractor-brought tools are inspected prior to use. He shall also ensure the person who is going to use the tools should have sufficient knowledge of the safe use of the tools.

• The EHS team and engineering team shall jointly assess the risk associated with power tool usage and chalk out the plan for risk mitigation.
• The EHS team shall ensure the right tools are selected according to the area of usage. For example, in highly flammable areas only flameproof tools should be allowed for usage.

ABBREVIATIONS

EHS: Environmental Health and Safety

ANNEXURE

Nil

REVISION HISTORY

Nil

ALSO READ: SOP for Guidelines for Engineering and Maintenance