November 4, 2022
Nail gun injuries are a severe problem in the Chicago and Illinois construction and industrial sectors. They’re one of the most common types of occupational injuries in construction.
Nail guns are powerful tools that use compressed air to drive nails into wood or other materials. And because they’re so powerful, nail guns can cause serious injuries, even if used properly.
The danger of nail guns.
The most common construction injury caused by a nail gun is a superficial wound to the hand or arm. These wounds can quickly become infected, leading to serious complications such as sepsis (a potentially life-threatening infection). Injuries to the head or neck are also possible with nail guns and may result in serious damage, including paralysis.
Anyone who uses a nail gun should always follow safety guidelines carefully. For example, never point the device at someone else, and make sure you have proper eye protection (such as goggles) when firing it.
How to avoid nail gun injuries.
- Use the correct type of nails for your project
- Keep the nail gun always pointed in a safe direction.
- Stay aware of your surroundings.
- Keep your hands and arms behind the nail gun.
- Read the owner’s manual carefully.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for using the tool.
- Use a safety guard whenever using a nail gun.
- Keep nails and other objects away from the barrel of the device.
- Refrain from over-tightening nails or using excessive pressure when firing the tool.
- Never point or hold the gun at someone else’s head or body.
What are the common causes of nail gun injuries?
Nail gun injuries can happen for several reasons. Most commonly, they result from someone mishandling or incorrectly using the tool. Other causes include accidents involving nails or other objects that can get stuck in the gun and firing the device when it’s not correctly aimed or held. But, accidents commonly occur because of unintentional double fires often caused by a malfunction.
How can you prevent nail gun injuries?
To reduce the risk of injury and construction accidents with nail guns remember to follow workplace guidelines. The CDC, Department of Health and Human Services, and NIOSH, in partnership with OSHA, are always available to offer workplace safety support materials and mandates.
