Before attaching the tool to the air line, check the following: -
1. The air line pressure must be less than the maximum rated pressure of the tool
2. The air coupling does not retain pressure in the tool body
3. The safety lever (where fitted) moves freely
4. The trigger operates freely
5. There are no missing or loose screws
6. There are no cracks or dents in the body of thetool
7. Wear safety glasses and ear defenders
8. Check the tool contains no fasteners
9. Do not depress the safety or trigger when attaching the tool to the air-line in case it fires
10. Ensure the tool is pointed at the floor when you attach it to the air line — away from you and others nearby
Pre-use tool checks with the air hose connected: -
1. Hold the tool pointed away from you or anyone nearby and with no fasteners in the magazine. With your finger off the trigger, push the safety lever against the work surface — THE TOOL MUST NOT ACTUATE. If the tool actuates, it indicates a fault in the trigger valve area.
2. Hold the tool pointed away from you or anyone nearby and with no fasteners in the magazine. With the safety lever not touching the work surface, pull the trigger — THE TOOL MUST NOT ACTUATE. If the tool actuates, it indicates a fault in the safety lever area.
Stop using the air tool in the case of any of the following: -
1. The tool is dented by a knock or being dropped
2. The tool jams. If so disconnect the tool from the air before attempting to clear the jam
3. If the tool fails any of the above safety checks
Tool Use & Procedures
When using the tool: -
1. Never point the tools nail outlet near yourself or others
2. Do not place your hands or feet near to the nail outlet
3. Ensure that your clothing does not interfere with the tool
4. When moving from place to place with the tool, remove it from the air line, then re-connect it at your new station
5. Keep your head to one side when nailing; in case of recoil
6. Do not drop the tool or use it as a hammer – the outer casing may be weakened or deformed by this
7. Use the correct range of fasteners in the tool
8. After loading a strip nailer, gently slide the pusher against the nails
9. Do not nail close to the edge or corner of the work or through too thin material
10. Remove the tool from the airline and take the fasteners from the tool when you have completed your work.
11. Do not use the tool on a ladder or scaffolding or other unstable surface
Tool Maintenance
Air Supply: -
1. Use only an air compressor to power the tool
2. Operate in the recommended pressure range
3. Use 3-piece air set (filter/regulator/oiler), or a filter+regulator and oil daily
4. Drain your compressor daily
Daily & Weekly Procedures: -
1. Clean the tool daily with an air blower to ensure the smooth movement of all external parts, especially the trigger and safety mechanisms
2. Use the correct grade of air tool oil & put 2-3 drops through the air inlet every day. (If the tool is not to be used for an extended period, oil the tool as normal and fire once to ensure the internal parts are well lubricated. Also, coat the external parts with a thin film of oil to prevent rust.)
3. Tighten all screws weekly
WORKPLACE SAFETY
EMPLOYEE RESPONSIBILITY
It is the responsibility of all employees in the work area to be aware of the potential dangers of high-powered air tools as shown in this leaflet.
EMPLOYER RESPONSIBILITY
It is the responsibility of the employer to ensure its employees and any other persons on its premises are made aware of the hazards associated with the use of nailing equipment and other potential risks in their own workplace.
SUMMARY
- FOLLOW SAFE WORKING PRACTICES
- Do not use the tool as a hammer
- Always carry the tool by the handle, with the air hose disconnected, and with no fingers on the trigger, and never carry the tool by the air hose. ALWAYS DISCONNECT THE HOSE WHEN MOVING FROM ONE OPERATING POSITION TO ANOTHER – EVEN IF IT IS ONLY A FEW YARDS
- The tool must not be used for other than the purpose it was designed
- Never clamp the trigger or safety lever in a locked operating position
- Never fire the tool into open space
- Never use a defective tool or one which is operating abnormally
- ALWAYS BE AWARE OF THE DIRECTION THE NAIL OUTLET IS POINTED AND NEVER POINT THE TOOL AT YOURSELF OR OTHERS
- Be aware of others in the vicinty when firing into the corner of timber
- Wear safety glasses and ear defenders
- Inspect the tool pre-use daily; never use a defective tool
- Always disconnect the tool from the air line when it is not in use
- ALWAYS ASSUME THE TOOL CONTAINS FASTENERS AND AIR PRESSURE