Struck by tools and materials toolbox talk
Read it out at the pre-start or a toolbox meeting, talk through the questions, and have everyone sign on. It's built from our struck by tools and materials page and the 43 SafetyDocs templates that cover it.
- Site
- Date
- Presented by
What it is
Being hit by hand tools, tensioned strapping, loose materials or other objects that slip, spring back or are thrown or swung during work.
Controls to check, most effective first
- Choose methods and tools that keep hands and bodies clear, such as powered or guarded tools instead of hand striking.
- Cut banding and tensioned straps with purpose-made cutters, and let go of the tension in a controlled way.
- Keep other people out of the swing and recoil zone of tools and straps, and keep a clear space around anyone using hand tools.
- Keep tools in good condition, with sound handles and dressed heads, and replace damaged tools.
- Secure materials, cables and loads so that they cannot swing or spring free.
- Wear safety glasses, gloves, steel-capped boots and a hard hat suited to the task.
Questions for the crew
- Where could struck by tools and materials come up on this job today?
- The most effective control is: “Choose methods and tools that keep hands and bodies clear, such as powered or guarded tools instead of hand striking”. Can we do that here? If not, why not?
- Which controls for struck by tools and materials are missing or not working on this site?
- When would you stop work because of struck by tools and materials, and who would you tell?
- How do we report a hazard, a near miss or an incident on this job?
Sign-on record
Everyone who attended signs below. Keep it with your toolbox talk records.
| Name | Company | Signature |
|---|---|---|
A starting point for a talk, not a SWMS or a risk assessment. Add what's particular to your site and crew.