Even in the age of automation, using hand tools in their everyday operations comes naturally to many. 

Whether you’re a professional or a weekend DIYer, hand tools are a great option to get the fix and finish you desire. However, although efficient, you cannot foresee the potential risks of using such tools. 

From minor cuts to serious injuries, accidents are common when hand tools are misused, poorly maintained, or used without protection.

Therefore, in this guide, we take a closer look at some workshop safety 101 to keep you away from injuries. Continue reading as we learn more about the safety tips in the following sections. 

Workshop Safety 101 - Walkthrough of Tools + Best Practices

Choose the Right Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Eye Protection

When cutting, sanding, or hammering, debris can fly unexpectedly. To protect your eyes:

• Use ANSI‑rated safety goggles with full coverage.
• Ensure a snug fit over prescription glasses.

Penn Tool Co lists the Crews Perforated Safety Goggles—ideal for impact resistance and comfort.

Hand Protection

Use gloves that fit well (not too loose or too tight). Look for options that offer grip, abrasion, or cut resistance depending on the task:

• General gloves for assembly and handling.
• Cut‑resistant gloves for sharp tools.
• Heavy-duty leather gloves for welding or handling hot parts.

Penn Tool Co carries a wide range of work & general-purpose gloves, plus accessory options to match your work. 

Inspect and Maintain Tools Regularly

1. Handle and Grip Integrity

Check the handle and grip of any hand tool before use, whether it is a screwdriver, chisel, or hammer. Splits, cracks, or loose handles reduce control and can cause slippage or breakage. Replace or repair damaged handles before use to ensure a secure and safe grip.

1. Blade and Edge Sharpness

Dull tools are a silent danger to you! Dull blades require excessive force, increasing the risk of slips and cuts. Therefore, it’s best to sharpen your tools regularly. For perforators or craft knives, change blades before they become noticeably dull.

1. Fastener Tightness

Wrench jaws, adjustable pliers, and socket sets often lose their grip over time. Give your tools a quick twist before every job to ensure things are tight. Loose parts can fail under strain, resulting in an unexpected movement or injury.

1. Regular Cleaning and Lubrication

As you use them, the tool tends to collect dust, wood shavings, and old oil.  This accumulation can cause your hand tools to work less effectively and increase the likelihood of rust. After each use, wipe off the dust that has accumulated on your equipment with a clean towel. To keep moving parts, such as pliers or adjustable wrenches, working smoothly, use mild oil or silicone spray.

1. Organized Storage

Like your tools scattered? Time to change the habit! Keep tools in a toolbox, tool roll, or pegboard. Proper storage reduces wear on tools and prevents accidental trips, stepped-on tools, or misplaced items that can result in accidents. 

Safe Usage Techniques for Hand Tools

Always Cut Away From Your Body

This thumb rule can be a lifesaver! Whether chiseling wood, slicing foam, or scraping paint, ensure that you hold the tool in a way that, even if it slips, it moves away. You don’t want the hand tool to come towards you. This basic habit can prevent major accidents. 

Use the Right Tool for the Job

You cannot use a hammer in place of a screwdriver. Similarly, a pry bar is not a mallet. Using tools beyond their purpose can pose a risk of injury, damage the tool, and hamper your progress. Always choose the appropriate tool to complete the job safely and effectively.

Secure Your Workpiece

Unstable materials lead to slipping, banging, and trapping your hand. Always use a vise, clamps, or secured bench dogs to hold your workpiece firmly in place. This frees both hands for safe, controlled tool use.

Test Cuts and Adjustments

Before diving into final workpieces, make test cuts on scrap materials. This allows you to confirm alignment, depth, and force needed, thereby reducing potential mistakes and preventing tool mishaps during the cut.

Maintain a Firm, Balanced Stance

Proper posture matters. Keep your weight centered, feet planted, and body clear of the tool path. This ensures maximum control and minimizes the chance of destabilizing yourself if something shifts or slips.

Go Slow and Stay Mindful

Rushing or multitasking is a recipe for accidents. Take deliberate action, keep your eyes on the task at hand, and stay disciplined. Combining focus with good habits reduces the risk of injury and improves work quality.

Essential Safety Gear from Penn Tool Co

Here are the top picks that every workshop should have:

• 3M Light Blue Lenses, Framed Safety Glasses – The 3M framed safety glasses are lightweight eyewear. It features wrap-around lenses, making it an ideal choice for machining, woodworking, and general workshop use.

• 3M Polycarbonate Safety Goggles – The 3M polycarbonate safety goggles are another great option if you want to block UV rays. These vented goggles fit over prescription glasses and block 99.9% of UV rays, making them a reliable tool for grinding, cutting, and splash protection.

• MCR Safety General-Purpose Gloves – The MCR Safety general-purpose gloves from Penn Tools Co. are affordable gloves with a rubber coating. They provide a perfectly enhanced grip for general tasks.

• Tilsatec Cut‑Resistant PU‑Coated Gloves – The Tilsatec cut‑resistant PU‑coated gloves are a great option for users who handle cutting operations. These gloves provide excellent resistance to sharp objects and rough materials, making them easy to handle.

• CORDOVA Nitrile‑Foam Cut‑Glove – The CORDOVA nitrile‑foam cut‑glove is designed for heavy-duty operations. The glove acts as a protective barrier against chemical and mechanical hazards.

Bringing It All Together: A Safety Checklist

Before you start a project, walk through this checklist:

• Are you wearing ANSI-rated eye protection?
• Do you have the gloves suited for the job?
• Have you inspected all hand tools before use?
• Are the materials appropriately secured?
• Is your first-aid kit nearby?

Final Takeaway

Preventing injuries at the workplace from hand tools comes down to two principles: using the proper protective gear and working smart. So, every time you’re working on a project, ensure that you wear appropriate gloves and goggles, inspect and maintain your tools, and follow safe techniques for every task. Following small checklists goes a long way in keeping you safe and adding to your output. 

Want help equipping your workshop or finding the right tool brands? Explore Penn Tool Co.’s safety products or reach out for expert recommendations.

Here's to safe, precise, and productive workdays ahead!