Power Tool Accidents in Philadelphia

Power tool accidents in Philadelphia, South Philly, Bustleton, and beyond are unfortunately common among construction workers. Each type of power tool has different risks and hazards associated with its use.

• Electric Tools – the main hazard is the risk of electrical burns and shocks. Electrical burns travel through the body burning internal tissue and are very serious injuries. Shocks can lead to heart failure and even small shocks that occur at large heights can cause a worker to fall and suffer a serious or fatal injury.
• Hydraulic Tools – such as jacks, are commonly used to lift heavy loads. Caught in/between accidents can result from jacks failing, causing workers to suffer crushing injuries.
• Liquid Fuel Tools – chainsaws, brush cutters, and concrete saws are examples of tools powered by gasoline. Working with this type of power tool can produce fuel vapors that can catch fire and explode. Without proper ventilation, exhaust fumes can cause carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Pneumatic Tools – these include hammers, drills, chippers, and sanders, which can send out flying fragments or attachments, causing eye injuries as well as other injuries. Pneumatic tools are also very noisy, which over time can lead to occupational hearing loss.
• Portable Abrasive Wheels – these are intended for grinding, cutting, and polishing and can throw off flying fragments when in use. The wheel itself can also fly apart while in operation if it is in poor condition. Injuries to the eyes, face, and other parts of the body are most common.
• Powder Actuated Tools – operation of Ramset guns, Hilti guns, and other powder actuated tools is so dangerous that special training is required. Injuries from these tools can include hearing damage and ricochet, penetration, and explosion injuries. Finger and hand mutilation, sometimes requiring amputation, is not uncommon.