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Powered Hand Tools - Pneumatic Nailing and Stapling Tools

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What general safety principles should you follow when using pneumatic nailing and stapling tools?

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  • Permit only experienced and trained people to operate pneumatic nailing and stapling tools.
  • Provide proper training on the safe operation, potential hazards, and emergency procedures. 
  • Wear safety glasses or goggles, or a face shield (with safety glasses or goggles) and, where necessary, use hearing protection.
  • Consider wearing protective, tight-fitting gloves to reduce the risk of cuts or punctures. 
  • Wear non-slip, protective footwear
  • Inspect each tool before connecting it to the air supply:
    • Check tool safety mechanisms for proper operation.
    • Tighten all screws and cylinder caps securely.
    • Verify the air supply and pressure meet the manufacturer's specifications.
  • Check that the tool is correctly and securely connected to the air supply hose, in good working order, and has a fully operating safety mechanism before using.
  • Always handle a tool as if it is loaded with fasteners (nails, staples, etc.).
  • Equip tools with a work-contacting element that limits the contact area to one that is as small as practical.
  • Make sure that the mechanical linkage between the work-contacting element and the trigger is enclosed to prevent unintentional firing.
  • Maintain a safe distance from others while operating the tool. 
Pneumatic Stapler
  • Disconnect the tool from the air supply and exhaust all air from the tool when:
    • not in use.
    • performing cleaning or adjustments. 
    • clearing blockages. 
  • Use only fasteners and components recommended by the manufacturer.
  • Allow only properly trained people to perform tool maintenance.
  • Make sure the work area is clean, well-lit, and free of obstructions. 
  • Avoid working in wet or slippery conditions. 
  • Make sure the workpiece is secured properly to prevent movement during operation. 

What should be avoided when using pneumatic nailing and stapling tools?

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  • Do not point the tool toward yourself or anyone else, whether it contains fasteners or not.
  • Do not depress the trigger unless the nosepiece of the tool is directed onto a safe work surface.
  • Do not carry the tool with the trigger depressed.
  • Do not load the tool with fasteners while the trigger is depressed.
  • Do not operate at a pressure above the manufacturer's rated specifications.
  • Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance.
  • Do not use compressed air to blow debris or to clean dirt from clothes.
  • Do not modify the tool or disable safety features. 
  • Do not use any damaged or malfunctioning tools. Report defects immediately. 
Do Not Clean With Compressed Air

Refer to Powered Hand Tools - Basic Safety for Pneumatic Tools for general safety tips for using tools powered by compressed air.


  • Fact sheet last revised: 2025-04-15

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