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STRUCK BY NAIL
| Accident Type: |
Struck by Nail |
 |
| Weather Conditions: |
N/A |
| Type of Operation: |
Remodeling |
| Size of Work Crew: |
2 |
| Collective Bargaining |
No |
| Competent Safety Monitor on Site: |
No |
| Safety and Health Program in Effect: |
No |
| Was the Worksite Inspected Regularly: |
No |
| Training and Education Provided: |
No |
| Employee Job Title: |
Maintainence |
| Age & Sex: |
32-Male |
| Experience at this Type of Work: |
1 Day |
| Time on Project: |
1 Day |
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF ACCIDENT
Two employees were doing remodeling construction and were building a wall. One of the workers was killed when he was struck by a nail fired from a powder-actuated tool. The tool operator, while attempting to anchor plywood to a 2" × 4" stud, fired the tool. The nail penetrated the stud and the plywood partition prior to striking the victim.
INSPECTION RESULTS
As a result of its investigation, OSHA issued citations for three serious violations. Had employees been trained in the use of powder-actuated tools and had precautions been taken to prevent the nail from passing through the wall, the accident probably would not have occurred.
ACCIDENT PREVENTION RECOMMENDATIONS
- Employees using powder-actuated tools must be trained in the operation of the particular tool. [29 CFR 1926.302(e)(l)].
- Driving into materials easily penetrated must be avoided unless materials are backed by a substance that will prevent the nail from passing completely through and creating a flying missile hazard on the other side [29 CFR 1926.302(e)(8)].
- Operators and assistants using powder-actuated tools must be safeguarded with eye protection [28 CFR 1926.302(e)(12)]
SOURCES OF HELP
- OSHA General Industry Standards [29 CFR Parts 1900-1910] and OSHA Construction Standards [29 CFR Part 1926] which together include all OSHA job safety and health rules and regulations covering construction.
- OSHA-funded free consultation services listed in telephone directories under U.S. Labor Department or under the state government section where states administer their own OSHA programs.
- Courses in construction safety are offered by the OSHA Training Institute, 1555 Times Drive, Des Plaines, IL 60018, 312/297-4810
NOTE: The case here described was selected as being representative of fatalities caused by improper work practices. No special emphasis or priority is implied nor is the case necessarily a recent occurrence. The legal aspects of the incident have been resolved, and the case is now closed.
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