For the handyman, staple guns are quite essential. A staple gun is used to drive staples into wood. It can be used for many household jobs, such as insulation, roofing, wiring, carpeting, and upholstery. It is quite powerful, easy to operate, and enhance productivity for staple jobs. They can be manually powered or electrically powered.
Staple guns can also be very dangerous in some cases. It is said that they are responsible for about 37,000 emergency visits annually. Most of these injuries occur during residential construction.
Given the hazards caused by staple guns, it is essential to take safety measures while using them so you can complete the job safely and efficiently. In this article we will cover the do’s and don’ts of staple guns, and how you can get the most out of your tool.
DO LEARN THE TRIGGER FUNCTION
Staple guns are designed to fire out staples very quickly, which is what makes them so efficient. Some will fire out staples one by one, while others eject a rapid pace. Understand the speed at which your staple gun fires before attempting to use. Read the instruction manual in full to learn how yours works.
DON’T WALK WITH YOUR FINGER ON THE TRIGGER
Walking while holding your finger on the trigger can be dangerous to you and those around you. Always put the gun down on a hard surface, away from the edge when you are done using it. Make sure it is turned off completely so no one else accidently activates it.
DO READ THE INSTRUCTIONS
It is quite essential to read the safety precautions of any given device before use. Before using the staple gun you need to understand each of the safety measures. You should know how it is used, as well as the common malfunctions that can occur. Look for the troubleshooting section at the end of the manual, as this will cover frequent issues that are specific to your model.
DON’T DISABLE THE SAFETY FEATURES
The safety features on the gun are put in place to protect you from serious injuries. Keep these features in place while using the staple gun. Read the instruction manual to locate where these safety features are before use.
DO INSPECT THE TOOL BEFORE EACH USE
Another safety tip is to make sure you inspect the device before each use, checking the power sources to ensure proper functionality. If any malfunction is noticed, it should be serviced or repaired immediately.
DON’T USE THE STAPLE GUN AS A HAMMER
The staple gun has one main use and should be used for its purpose only. Never attempt to hammer or nail anything in as this can cause damage to the gun and possible self injury.
DO POINT THE GUN AWAY FROM YOUR FACE
This involves making sure one’s arms are far from the staple discharge point, thereby reducing the probability of an injury occurring. It is recommended one uses clamps rather than hands as being employed by most people.
DON’T POINT THE GUN UPWARDS
Always point the tool in the direction of the object you are trying to staple. This should be down or straight ahead. Never point it up in the air or at someone else. If you need your hands for something else, place the staple gun on a nearby table until you need it again.
DO PUT ON SAFETY GEAR PRIOR TO OPERATING
While using the staple gun, it is your responsibility to wear the proper safety gear at all times. Here are some recommended safety items:
- Safety glasses for eye protection. (Our pick: NoCry Over-Spec Safety Glasses)
- Earmuffs or plugs for ear protection. (Our pick: 3M 1100 Foam Ear Plugs)
DON’T USE STAPLE GUN WITH YOUR NON-DOMINANT HAND
Always use the staple gun with your dominant hand, the one you use the most. Do not attempt to use your other hand under any circumstance. Ask someone for assistance if you are having trouble using the staple gun with your normal hand.
DO KNOW WHEN TO UNPLUG THE AIR COMPRESSOR
Make sure the air compressor is unplugged in the following instances;
- While moving up and down a ladder or stairs.
- When removing jammed staples
- Handing the gun to another person on-site with you.
- Performing servicing or maintenance on the staple gun.
- When the gun is not in use.
DO PROVIDE FIRST AID MEDICAL TREATMENT IF NECESSARY
It is essential that first aid treatment is given to anyone injured while using the staple gun. If you or someone else is injured, stop what you are doing immediately and call the ambulance. If you have a first aid kit nearby, you can use it in the meantime.
Conclusion
Having looked at the do’s and don’ts of staple guns, you should have a clearer picture of how to safely operate your woodworking tool. We hope that you have gotten value from this article. The staple gun is an essential device that can make work faster and neater, but you need to pay attention to avoid hazardous situations.
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