Oscillating tools are the most versatile devices for sanding, cutting, grinding, scraping, and many other activities. Their unique, oscillating motion allows them to be applied to work in tight spaces and corners in such a wide range of applications.
However, this oscillation also comes with a certain element of danger. The risk is always present when the blade speeds through the air at enormous speeds. Even a tiny, seemingly harmless blade could easily tear your skin upon contact.
Besides, due to the production of vibrations, attachments may become loose with time if not properly tightened down. For these reasons, it would be best if you always practice safety when working with an oscillating tool. These tools are undoubtedly beneficial, but their power and speed of movement can easily lead to harm with carelessness about the safety measures.
Here are six important safety tips to remember when you use an oscillating tool.
1. Wear Protective Equipment
Even though oscillating tools are small, they vibrate very quickly. This vibration gives them the power to work through many materials. But it also means they can easily hurt you if you’re not careful.
Therefore, always wear proper protective equipment when using an oscillating tool. This includes safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris. As the oscillating blade moves rapidly against the material, pieces of whatever is being cut or sanded will inevitably break off and turn into projectiles moving at high speed. Safety glasses are essential to prevent these particles from entering the eyes and causing injury.
Heavy-duty work gloves are also necessary to protect your hands from vibration and possible cuts. The tool’s strong vibrations can cause hand fatigue over time if not mitigated with gloves.
Furthermore, consider wearing a respirator or dust mask if your project creates a lot of fine dust particles. Many common oscillating tool materials like wood or drywall produce substantial respirable dust during the cutting or sanding. Breathing this dust regularly without protection poses a health risk.
Also, long pants and closed-toe shoes provide extra protection for your legs and feet. Project debris and wandering blades are hazards beyond just the hands and eyes.
2. Ensure Adequate Blade Clearance
One of the key safety practices when using an oscillating multi-tool is to be mindful of the clearance between the blade and your work surface. The blades on these tools move at incredibly high oscillating speeds. If the clearance is too tight and the blade has limited room to vibrate, accidents can occur from the blade making accidental contact with the material.
It is best to allow at least 1/4 inch of space between the furthest point of the oscillating blade and the workpiece to prevent these accidents. Taking the time to slowly and carefully position the tool while measuring clearance can help reduce risky situations that could lead to cuts or loss of control.
Remember to pay close attention to any changes in depth or angle of the material that could reduce clearance as you work. Adequate clearance gives the blade flexibility while keeping your hands and the work surface safe.
3. Check For Loose Attachments
Before using an oscillating tool, inspect that all attachments, like blades and sanding pads, are firmly tightened. Vibration during operation can cause loosely attached pieces to wiggle loose over time.
This is dangerous as loose pieces have the potential to fly off the tool at high speeds. Use the included wrenches or adjustable spanners to hand-tighten attachments. Do not overtighten, which could damage components. And never operate the tool without a proper attachment secured in place.
4. Avoid Contact With Blade Edges
While handling oscillating tool attachments, be careful not to touch the sharp cutting edges with your bare skin. Blade edges stay keen even after dulling some and can easily cut through fingernails or skin with minimal pressure.
Keep blades pointed away from your body during replacement, storage, and transport. Store blades safely in a case or bin when not in use. Whether blades are old or new, respect their potential to inflict harm by always keeping edges away from exposed skin and being especially cautious when replacing or moving attachments by hand.
5. Watch For Snag Points
Pay attention to any snag points where blades or attachments could catch on fabric, long hair, or jewelry and abruptly pull the tool toward you. Tie back long hair and remove dangling accessories before use.
Also, avoid loose-fitting clothes that could become entangled. Maintain complete control of your oscillating tool and watch out for anything it might snag on to help prevent kickbacks.
6. Use the Right Attachment For The Job
Using the proper attachment suited for the job is essential for safety and tool longevity. For example, using a wood cutting blade on tile could damage the blade and cause deterioration. Don’t force attachments beyond their limits.
Refer to the owner’s manuals and blade packaging for suitable applications. Matching the proper attachment to the material being worked on eliminates misuse risks.
Key Takeaway
The most important thing to remember when using an oscillating tool is safety first. These powerful tools vibrate at incredible speeds; even small blades can cause severe cuts if you don’t follow the precautions.
Always wear protective equipment like safety glasses, gloves, and respirators to prevent debris, vibration, or dust injury. You can use oscillating tools safely for many DIY projects with care and caution.
