DID YOU KNOW?
2 out of 5 residential carpenter apprentices are injured using a nail gun during training. [1]
KNOW THE RISK
- Nail guns are a common tool on construction jobs — but also a major source of injury. Misfires can puncture hands, feet, or even cause serious trauma. [1]
- Annually, nail guns result in over 37,000 emergency room visits. [1]
- Most injuries occur in framing, sheathing, siding, and roofing work, often during repetitive or awkward hand positioning. [1]
- Risk of injury is nearly doubled when using a multi-shot contact trigger instead of a full sequential trigger. [1]
MITIGATE THE RISK
1. Use Full Sequential Triggers
- Full sequential trigger nail guns fire only when the nose and trigger are both pressed in sequence, reducing the chance of accidental discharge. [1]
2. Wear Proper PPE
- Always wear hard hats, safety glasses, and steel-toe boots when using or working near nail guns. [1]
3. Keep Hands at Least 12 Inches From the Nailing Point
- Hand and finger injuries are the most common. Use clamps or guides to stabilize material instead of your hands. [1]
4. Disconnect the Air Supply Before Moving or Repairing
- Always disconnect the compressed air before performing maintenance or moving the tool to prevent misfire. [1]
TOOL SAFETY REMINDER
Nail guns boost productivity but can cause life-altering injuries when misused. Use the safest trigger type, wear PPE, and always be alert when operating near others. Safety starts at the trigger.