STSC Tool and Equipment Safety 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Before operating a powder-actuated fastening tool on a construction site, what must the operator possess?
- A general construction contractor's license
- Manufacturer-issued training and certification (Correct answer)
- Written supervisor approval for each individual use
- At least five years of general construction experience
Correct answer: Manufacturer-issued training and certification
OSHA requires that only trained and certified operators — certified by the tool manufacturer — may use powder-actuated tools.
Question 2: What is the correct method for carrying sharp-edged or pointed tools on a construction site?
- In the hand with the point facing upward for visibility
- With the point or blade covered and directed away from the body (Correct answer)
- In a loose side pocket for quick access throughout the shift
- Tucked under the arm with the blade facing inward
Correct answer: With the point or blade covered and directed away from the body
Sharp tools must be carried with the cutting edge or point protected and directed away from the body to prevent accidental lacerations.
Question 3: When using an extension cord with a power tool in an outdoor construction environment, the cord must be rated for:
- Indoor use only, provided it is kept dry
- Outdoor use (Type W or equivalent rating) (Correct answer)
- Any rating as long as the voltage matches the tool
- A rating that exceeds 220 volts regardless of tool requirements
Correct answer: Outdoor use (Type W or equivalent rating)
Outdoor extension cords must carry an outdoor rating (Type W) to withstand moisture, temperature extremes, and physical abuse encountered in construction environments.
Question 4: What does the lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedure require before servicing or maintaining a power tool?
- Reducing the tool to its lowest operating speed setting
- De-energizing and locking out the energy source before any service begins (Correct answer)
- Having a second qualified worker observe all maintenance activities
- Placing a visible warning sign adjacent to the tool
Correct answer: De-energizing and locking out the energy source before any service begins
LOTO requires that energy sources be de-energized and physically locked out to prevent accidental re-energization while workers are servicing equipment.
Question 5: Which condition makes an extension cord immediately unacceptable for use with power tools?
- A 12-gauge rating in an outdoor environment
- Damaged insulation or visible splices with exposed wiring (Correct answer)
- An ampere rating of 15 amperes for standard tools
- A three-prong grounded plug configuration
Correct answer: Damaged insulation or visible splices with exposed wiring
Extension cords with damaged insulation or exposed splices create immediate electrocution and fire hazards and must be removed from service.
Question 6: How should tools be properly stored at the end of each work shift?
- Left at the worksite in the open for convenient access the next shift
- Cleaned, inspected, and secured in proper cases or designated storage areas (Correct answer)
- Stored only if the tools are high-value or hard to replace
- Placed in any available container to keep them off the ground
Correct answer: Cleaned, inspected, and secured in proper cases or designated storage areas
Proper cleaning, inspection, and organized storage prevents tool damage, maintains readiness for the next shift, and eliminates tripping and struck-by hazards.
Question 7: What is the function of the tongue guard (spark deflector) on a bench grinder?
- To redirect sparks away from the operator by deflecting them downward (Correct answer)
- To hold the workpiece steady against the grinding wheel surface
- To reduce noise generated by the abrasive wheel during operation
- To apply coolant to the grinding zone during extended use
Correct answer: To redirect sparks away from the operator by deflecting them downward
The tongue guard is positioned above the wheel opening to deflect sparks downward and away from the operator's face and body.
STSC Tool and Equipment Safety 2
Before operating a powder-actuated fastening tool on a construction site, what must the operator possess?