Powder-actuated tools, also called direct fasteners and explosive actuated fastening tools, use a small, controlled explosion to drive a nail, stud, or other specialized fastener into a solid base material such as steel, concrete, or masonry.
Are powder-actuated tools Legal?
Due to their potential for causing personal injury, OSHA regulations in the US require certification specific to the tool being used before any person is permitted to rent or use powder-actuated equipment. Most manufacturers of powder-actuated nail guns offer training and certification, some with free online testing.
Is a powder-actuated tool a firearm?
Powder-actuated tools are powered by specially-designed blank firearm cartridges, also informally called "loads", "boosters", "rounds", or "charges". In many cases, the charges are ordinary firearm cartridges with modified casings, and the bullets omitted.
What are 2 safety concerns with powder-actuated tools?
- Flying particles of dirt or scale, or particles discharged from the work surface the stud enters.
- Using too heavy a charge for the material.
- Studs ricocheting if the tool is not held properly or is being used on too hard a material.
What should powder actuated tools never be used on?
Fasteners shall not be driven into very hard or brittle materials such as cast iron, glazed tile, surface hardened steel, glass block, live rock, face brick or hollow title.
Who can operate a powder-actuated tool?
employees
How do powder-actuated tools work?
Powder-actuated tools are powered by small explosive cartridges, which are triggered when a firing pin strikes a primer, a sensitive explosive charge in the base of the cartridge. In high-velocity tools, the propellant charge acts directly on the fastener in a process similar to a firearm.
When using powder-actuated tools you must?
- Use the tool at right angles to the work surface.
- Check the chamber to see that the barrel is clean and free from any obstruction, before using the tool.
- Do not use the tool where flammable or explosive vapours, dust or similar substances are present.
What are PA tools?
Powder-actuated (PA) tools are designed to fire fasteners into concrete, steel and other hard materials. They use the same principle as a firearm, with a small explosive charge placed behind the projectile. In the case of a PA gun used by a floor layer, the projectile would be a hardened steel nail, or 'drive pin'.
What are the examples of powder actuated tools?
Common examples include some types of nail guns and concrete fasteners. The owner (who can also be the employer or employee who is required to use the tool) of a powder actuated tool must ensure that: The tool, power load and fastener meet the requirements of ANSI standard ANSI A10.
Who can use a powder-actuated tool?
Allow only trained, competent and authorized persons who are familiar with the regulations governing the use of the tool to operate powder-actuated tools (also known as explosive actuated fastening tools). Powder-actuated tools operate like loaded guns.