Worker injured during hammer drill testing (9 June 2023)
A 68-year-old worker suffered serious injury to his hand while carrying out function tests on a rotary hammer drill. Whilst testing the functionality of the drill, the worker’s safety glove became caught on a moving component of the drill. The glove material then tightened and amputated his thumb.
![Side view of a rotary hammer drill with moil point chisel attached.](https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/image/0007/1197790/hammer-drill-accident.jpg)
The rotary hammer drill with moil point chisel attached.
Safety information
Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with operating electrical tools.
Ensure:
- workers are informed, trained and competent to operate the tool within the scope of the current safe operating procedures
- you perform a risk assessment before undertaking work. If there are any safety concerns, consult with the PCBU before carrying out any work with the tool
- electrically powered tools are tested and tagged before operation
- you follow safe operating procedures for setting-up, operating, cleaning, and maintaining the tool
- all persons wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and avoid loose clothing near moving tool components
- tools and equipment are only operated in line with the manufacturer’s instructions and operator’s manual
- your work procedures do not involve touching any moving components of the tool during operation
- safeguards are not removed during operation.
Related guidance material
- Code of practice – Managing the risks of plant in the workplace (PDF, 1987.96 KB)
- Plant, machinery and equipment
- Guide to machine safety (PDF, 735.27 KB)
- Machinery resources pack