Metal / non-metal serious injury incident
Hazard Alert: US Dept of Labour - Saw 2015 - Download and share
What happened?
Cement Plant – A contract employee (victim) was using a handheld rotary saw with a worn concrete blade to cut through a 6-inch iron pipe. As the worker attempted to cut the pipe from the bottom up, the saw bounced off the pipe, striking the victim in the chest and causing a severe wound. Worker was transported to a local hospital and was released several days later.
How could the incident have been prevented?
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Use appropriate equipment for the job.
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Train workers on machine use and allow only trained workers to operate and maintain the equipment.
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Frequently inspect equipment and guards.
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Do not use worn blades due to the potential to cause kickbacks.
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Follow manufacturer’s specifications and operating procedures.
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Choose the correct blade for the material being cut.
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Make sure the blade is properly secured and the blade guard is down.
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Make sure the blade has no damage (chips or cracks).
Source: Mine Safety and Health Administration, United States Department of Labour