Construction sites are dangerous places. Approximately 20% of workplace fatalities were in the construction field in 2015, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). 65% of these deaths resulted from what OSHA calls the Fatal Four: Falls (38.8%), Struck by Object (9.6%), Electrocutions (8.6%), and Caught-in/between (7.2%). While accidents happen, there are preventative measures that can be taken, especially when it comes to electrocution.
The risk of electrocution can come from a range of sources. It can be the result of ungrounded or damaged cords on traditional, electric power tools. It can occur, and be worsened, when there is no Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) available. There is also a risk that wiring may become wet in the event of rain or a plumbing leak at the construction site. Wet conditions can also lower your skin's resistance to shock. The wetter you are, the more your body conducts electricity. But there are tools that can eliminate this risk: Pneumatics.
Pneumatic tools are air-powered. The tool is powered by compressed air being pushed in from a compressor. While you do need electricity to run your compressor, the tool itself is separated from the compressor by a rubber hose. This eliminates the risk of shock.
Many powered tools are used in environments where moisture, conductive materials and flammable liquids are present. Cord damage can pose not only a shock risk, but also a risk of fire or explosion if they come in contact with these pooled liquids. These tools also do not produce sparks, which can prevent other jobsite injuries and damage.
In addition to eliminating shock and sparks, pneumatic tools are lightweight, lower impact, and easier to use which will all work together to help your crew be more productive. They’ll be able to work faster with far less fatigue. They are also easy to repair and maintain and have a metal housing which will reduce damage from drops. While they may be more expensive than electrics at purchase, their total cost of ownership will be far less over time.
FASCO America® offers a wide range of pneumatic tools that can help you spend less time accomplishing your task and feel safer and more comfortable doing so. Using pneumatics can be a real life-saver.