What should a worker do before using hand and power tools for safety purposes?

Inspecting tools before each use is crucial for maintaining safety in any work environment, especially in high hazard facilities. This process involves checking for any signs of damage, wear, or malfunction that could lead to accidents or injuries during operations. Regular inspection ensures that tools are functioning correctly and can help identify issues such as frayed cords, dull blades, or missing safety guards. By making it a routine practice to inspect equipment before use, workers can mitigate risks and enhance overall safety.

While cleaning tools, reading the manual, and wearing protective equipment are all important components of safe tool usage, they do not specifically address the necessary step of ensuring that equipment is in proper working condition before beginning a task. Cleaning tools is essential for maintenance, reading the manual provides valuable information for effective use, and wearing protective equipment is critical for personal safety, but these actions should complement regular inspections, which focus on tool integrity.