How to Safely Use a Jackhammer
Concrete is notoriously difficult to split apart, and that’s why builders and building professionals all around the world use jackhammers help with their work. Used to break apart and demolish pavement, concrete, and other hard surfaces, jackhammers are a staple at any construction work site. While they are amazingly useful, they’re also somewhat difficult to use.
Using a jackhammer is not for the faint of heart. It isn’t something that you’ll be able to get and learn how to use immediately. Many areas require jackhammer operators to undergo training and certification before they’re allowed to use one.
If you’re considering using one, understanding and following a few tips and pointers can certainly help in ensuring safe and proper use.
1. Wear safety equipment
Wearing personal protective equipment is essential before using a jackhammer. Jackhammers are dangerous in the hands of an unskilled person, and one wrong move can maim you.
Safety gear you need to utilize includes earmuffs or buds a hat, goggles, respirator, high-visibility vest, work gloves, and steel-toed shoes.
2. Educate yourself
Whether you’re a home user or a professional, you have to undergo training so you can safely and properly use a jackhammer. Using jackhammers require prior knowledge to guarantee the user can safely and properly use it.
3. Compressor placement
Jackhammers themselves are noisy, and couple that with the air compressor, the sound could become unbearable. Reduce the level of noise by putting the compressor as far away from your worksite as you can.
4. Inspect the jackhammer
Make it a point to inspect the jackhammer for any defects or damage prior to and after using it. See if all components are complete, secured, and in working condition.
Do not forget to inspect the air ducts to for cracks and fractures, and the cable for wear and tear. By doing this, you get to save a lot of money down the line.
5. Position yourself
Jackhammers are heavy enough to cause injuries to their users. When using a jackhammer, place the tool at an angle with the hammer’s body leaning back to you. Doing so will prevent the hammer tip from jamming. It also gives the user more control in the event the jackhammer goes berserk.
Lift the jackhammer with your thighs. This protects you from debilitating and costly back strains and injuries. When going from one place to another, put your hand on the lever.
6. Utilize the right points
Choose the right jackhammer points for the material you are likely to break. Rock points for stone, chisel points for concrete and other surfaces, and points for asphalt. Never use a broken or damaged point.
If ever you need to swap tool points, remember to turn the air source off and relieve the pressure in the nozzle first.
7. Clear the area
Do not use a jackhammer near bystanders (especially kids), untrained co-workers and animals. Shut the machine off if someone attempts to approach you. A jackhammer isn’t a toy.
8. Check the structure
Check the structural integrity from time to time. Weakened points may converge and the whole structure can fail, resulting in a partial collapse or worse. Make sure there aren’t any live piping or wiring buried within the cement.
9. Take breaks often
Remember to take regular breaks when using a jackhammer. Accidents can be caused by the muscle and vibration fatigue. Do not try to finish everything in one go. Pace yourself and spread the work out.
