Tool Safety for Kids

Kids like to mimic what their parents do. Boys and girls often want to help with household repairs or building projects. While it is good to teach children how these things are done, caution should be taken to prevent children from being injured. Teaching kids tool safety helps provide the knowledge of how tools work and what steps to take in using tools without getting hurt.

Teach Before Touch

• Teach kids what each tool is for and how to use it safely.

  Keeping the toolbox locked and all tools out of reach of children is a first step in tool safety. As kids learn to safely use tools, they will also learn to put things away correctly in order to keep other children safe.

  Teach children what each tool in your workshop if for, how it works, and how to use it safely. Let kids hold tools and look them over before having them just pick up a tool and try to use it. Teach the proper way to pick up, carry and hold tools while working.

  Warn children of cutting, pinching, crushing, and poking hazards. Then, show kids how to properly hold each tool to use it.

Supervision

• Adult supervision is imperative, especially with younger children. Preteens and teens might be able to use some tools without an adult present, but at even these ages, kids should be familiar with the safe use of tools before being allowed to use them. Adults should stay focused while a child is working with tools. Teach children to concentrate or put down a tool if facing distractions, such as visitors or telephone calls.

Protecting the Body

• Children should see adults wearing protective gear when using tools. Along with being taught safe ways of tool use, kids also learn by observing adults using safe practices. Safety goggles will keep debris and objects from striking the eyes. Nonslip gloves should be worn when using tools that might slip if used with sweaty hands or if the tools can easily cut or pinch. A hat or hardhat may be needed, depending on the project. Footwear should be close-toed and have nonslip soles. Teach children to remove jewelry, as it can get caught in moving parts. Long hair should be fastened back so it doesn't get caught in tools or obstruct a child's view. Loose-fitting shirts and jackets can also get caught in tools.

Begin with Nonpower Tools

• Children of any age should begin working with nonpower tools. Using hand tools will allow children to learn the basics of building or repair projects, while eliminating the risk being injured from an out-of-control power tool. Graduate to battery-operated tools to help kids learn to control a powered tool. Then, kids, especially older children, can learn how to safely use power tools.

Kids' Building Workshops

• Building workshops, such as the free events held by national home improvement chains, will also teach children hands-on use of tools. Parents and children can attend these classes together, so parents can further instruct kids at home about tool safety.