Straight shooters

Productive powder-actuated tool use starts with proper training, then follows with using those best practices every time the tool is used.

Powder-actuated tools are efficient, powerful tools. But to assure they are used correctly and safely, anyone using or working near a powder-actuated tool must receive training.

“OSHA requires operators of powder-actuated tools to be trained,” says Alan Price, application engineer at Powers Fasteners, Inc.

He points out that 29 CFR 1926.302(e)(1) covers training succinctly:

“Only employees who have been trained in the operation of the particular tool in use shall be allowed to operate a powder-actuated tool.”

Furthermore, 29 CFR 1926.302(e)(12) states: “Powder-actuated tools used by employees shall meet all other applicable requirements of American National Standards Institute (ANSI) A10.3-1970, Safety Requirements for Explosive-Actuated Fastening Tools.”

This ANSI standard has been updated and licensing requirements are established in ANSI A10.3-1995, the American National Standard for Construction and Demolition Operations’ safety requirements for powder-actuated fastening systems. This standard, published in 1995, also covers design requirements, fasteners, operation, uses, maintenance, storage and power loads.

Training components
Training is a specific program developed by the powder-actuated tool manufacturer. The regulations require it must be tool-specific. That means a user trained in a single-shot powder-actuated tool can’t be considered fully trained on a multi-shot tool.

“Licensing and training is a common practice since OSHA has established the training regulation. If a contractor is found to be out of compliance, fines and/or the closing of the jobsite are possible,” says Price.

What training covers
Price says the training must include the following activities:

1. Reading and understanding the manufacturer's instructions for the specific tool to be used. There are nuances between different brands of similar types of tools. Reading and understanding the operator manual is key to safe use.

2. Directions on cleaning the tool correctly. Again, variations in tool brands and styles affect cleaning procedures. Proper cleaning assures top tool performance and safety.

3. How to use the numeric-color code system for identifying powder load levels.

4. Proper tool use. This will be governed by the tool type and application.

5. Passing a written exam. These are usually true/false and/or multiple choice.

Who can train
Training must be factory-compliant. Authorized instructors are “persons trained and authorized by the tool manufacturer or by an authorized representative of the tool manufacturer who shall be qualified to instruct and qualify operators for the manufacturer's powder-actuated tools.” This is a requirement of ANSI A10.3. Tool distributors that sell powder-actuated tools and supplies often have experts on staff who can train users on the jobsite.

Keeping records
While a license will be awarded to operators who attend the training and pass the written exam, ANSI A10.3 also requires the tool manufacturer to maintain a list or record of all instructors currently authorized by the manufacturer to instruct and qualify operators. “This list must be made available to the regulating body having jurisdiction upon request,” Price says.

This article appeared in the November/December 2005 issue of Contractor Tools and Supplies magazine.

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