(1) Acceptable tools. You must only use tools meeting the requirements of this standard.

(2) Qualified operators. Only qualified operators must operate tools.

(3) Use lowest velocity. You must use the lowest velocity class of tool that will properly set the fastener.

(4) Operating limitations. You must operate tools in strict accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

(5) Personal protection. Operators, assistants, and adjacent personnel must wear eye or face protection, or both, when tool is in use. Hearing protection must be used when making fastenings in confined areas.

(6) Daily inspections. Each day, prior to use, the operator must inspect the tool to determine that it is in proper working condition in accordance with the testing methods recommended by the manufacture [manufacturer ] of the tool.

(7) Defective tools. You must immediately remove from service any tool found not to be in proper working condition and tag it "defective"; you must not use it until it has been properly repaired in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

(8) Proper accessories. You must use the proper shield, fixture, adapter, or accessory, suited for the application, as recommended and supplied by the manufacturer.

(9) Proper loads and fasteners. You must only use those types of fasteners and power loads recommended by the tool manufacturer for a particular tool, or those providing the same level of safety and performance.

(10) Questionable material. Before fastening into any questionable material, the operator must determine its suitability by using a fastener as a center punch. If the fastener point does not easily penetrate, is not blunted, and does not fracture the material, initial test fastenings must then be made in accordance with the tool manufacturer's recommendations. (See WAC 296-155-36315(3).)

(11) Tool safety. You must not load any tool unless it is being prepared for immediate use. If the work is interrupted after loading, you must unload the tool at once.

(12) Powder actuated magazine or clip-fed tools are not considered loaded unless a power load is actually in the ram (firing chamber), even though the magazine or clip is inserted in the tool. If work is interrupted, you must clear the firing chamber and remove the magazine or clip.

(13) Pointing tools.You must not load tools until just prior to the intended firing time. You must not point either loaded or empty tools at any person; you must keep hands clear of the open barrel end.

(14) Tool perpendicular to work. You must always hold the tool perpendicular to the work surface when fastening into any material, except for specific applications recommended by the tool manufacturer.

(15) Misfires. In the event of a misfire, the operator must hold the tool firmly against the work surface for a period of 30 seconds and then follow the explicit instructions set forth in the manufacturer's instructions.

(16) Different power levels. You must keep power loads of different power levels and types in separate compartments or containers.

(17) Signs. You must post a sign, at least 20 x 25 cm (8 x 10 in), using boldface type no less than 2.5 cm (1 in) in height, in plain sight on all construction projects where tools are used. The sign must bear wording similar to the following: "powder actuated tool in use."

PDFWAC 296-155-36313

Operation.