Gas- and Powder-Actuated Fastening Safety Principles
Gas- and Powder-Actuated Fastening Safety Principles Before operating any Simpson Strong-Tie Anchor Systems® gas or powder-actuated tool, you must thoroughly read and understand the Operators Manual so that you fully understand the safety guidelines of the tool. You must be trained by an authorized instructor regarding the operation of the tool. Simpson Strong-Tie highly recommends that you read and fully understand the safety guidelines of the tool you use. You must then pass a test and receive a certified operator card to become a Certified Operator of Simpson Strong-Tie tools. The test and Operator’s Manual are included with each tool kit and extra copies can be obtained by contacting Simpson Strong-Tie at (800) 999-5099.
General Safety
To avoid serious injury or death:
- ALWAYS make sure that the operator and bystanders wear safety glasses per ANSI Z78.1. Hearing and head protection are also recommended.
- ALWAYS post warning signs when gas- or powder-actuated tools are in use. Signs should state “Tool in Use” and should be posted within the area where the tool is being used.
- ALWAYS store gas-and powder-actuated tools unloaded. Tools and powder loads should be stored in a locked container out of the reach of children.
- NEVER place any part of your body over the front muzzle of the tool even if no fastener is present. The fastener, pin or tool piston can cause serious injury or death in the event of an accidental discharge.
- NEVER transport fasteners or other hard objects in the same pocket or container with powder loads or fuel cells. These objects may strike the energy source, or puncture the fuel cell, thereby igniting and causing serious injury or death.
- NEVER attempt to bypass or circumvent any of the safety features on a powder- or a gas-actuated tool.
- ALWAYS keep the tool pointed in a safe direction.
- ALWAYS keep your finger off the trigger.
- ALWAYS keep the tool unloaded until ready to use.
- ALWAYS stay alert, watch what you are doing and use common sense when operating. Do not use while tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or medication. A moment of inattention while operating may result in serious personal injury.
- ALWAYS maintain tool with care, and keep tool clean.
Safety equipment such as safety glasses and ear plugs are recommended when using powder-actuated tools
Safety Documents
Installation Safety
To avoid serious injury or death:
- ALWAYS hold the tool perpendicular (90°) to the fastening surface to prevent ricocheting fasteners. Use the spall guard whenever possible.
- NEVER attempt to fasten into soft, thin, brittle or very hard materials such as drywall, light gauge steel, glass, tile or cast iron as these materials are inappropriate. Conduct a pre-punch test to determine base material adequacy.
- NEVER attempt to fasten into soft material like wood or drywall (fastening through soft materials into an appropriate base material may be allowed if the application is appropriate).
- NEVER attempt to fasten to a spalled, cracked or uneven surface.
- Re-driving of pins is not recommended.
Warning Sign
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