Worker injured during hammer drill testing (9 June 2023)
A 68-year-old worker suffered serious injury to his hand while carrying out function tests on a rotary hammer drill. Whilst testing the functionality of the drill, the worker’s safety glove became caught on a moving component of the drill. The glove material then tightened and amputated his thumb.
The rotary hammer drill with moil point chisel attached.
Safety information
Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with operating electrical tools.
Ensure:
- workers are informed, trained and competent to operate the tool within the scope of the current safe operating procedures
- you perform a risk assessment before undertaking work. If there are any safety concerns, consult with the PCBU before carrying out any work with the tool
- electrically powered tools are tested and tagged before operation
- you follow safe operating procedures for setting-up, operating, cleaning, and maintaining the tool
- all persons wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and avoid loose clothing near moving tool components
- tools and equipment are only operated in line with the manufacturer’s instructions and operator’s manual
- your work procedures do not involve touching any moving components of the tool during operation
- safeguards are not removed during operation.
Related guidance material
- Code of practice – Managing the risks of plant in the workplace (PDF, 1987.96 KB)
- Plant, machinery and equipment
- Guide to machine safety (PDF, 735.27 KB)
- Machinery resources pack