Be safe with powered tools, urges WorkCover

WorkCover NSW is reminding kitchen, wall frame and roof truss manufacturers of the importance of working safely with powered hand tools after more than 100 workers were injured in the industry over three years.

The reminder comes after the wood products manufacturing industry was identified as one of the state’s highest risk industries with 1965 workers compensation claims in the three years to 2010 at a cost of $19.5 million to the NSW workers compensation scheme.

The general manager of WorkCover’s Work Health and Safety Division, John Watson, said local inspectors were working with kitchen, wall frame and roof truss manufacturers as part of an action plan to improve safety across the industry.

“The manufacture of kitchens, wall frames and roof trusses involves working with powered hand tools during the cutting and assembly process, increasing the risk of serious cuts and amputations,” Watson said.

“Cheap, noisy and heavy tools can be awkward to use, vibrate a lot and require excessive force which can result in painful blood vessel, nerve, hand and finger joint disorders.

“A simple solution to address the risk of workers coming into contact with exposed blades or entrapment points is to install guarding in the workshop.

“Importantly, provide adequate training, supervision and instruction to workers to ensure they are competent in safely operating machinery and powered hand tools.

“While it’s clear that more can be done to create safer workplaces in this industry, by following these simple steps, injuries with powered hand tools can be avoided.

“WorkCover Inspectors are continuing to work with local wood manufacturing businesses to help them reduce workplace injuries and illnesses and improve injury management.”

Watson said WorkCover had a range of products and incentives to help local businesses create safer workplaces.

“Most small businesses within this industry are time and resource poor, and need simple and easy-to-use information and resources to help them improve safety,” he said.

“To help them do this, all local kitchen, wall frame and roof truss manufacturers have been sent a safety kit with practical tools and tips on how to avoid injuries.

“Inspectors have also visited more than 400 businesses state-wide to provide advice and assistance on safety and return to work.

“Additionally, rebates of up to $500 are available to small businesses and sole traders for purchase and installation of safety improvements through our Small Business Rebate Program. The rebate can be used to purchase items like low-vibration air tools as well as guarding to prevent or reduce access to dangerous areas,” he said.

For further information, visit www.workcover.nsw.gov.au.