Non-sparking tools are made from materials that do not contain iron (non-ferrous metals), thus reducing the risk of sparks when using the tools. Non-sparking tools prevent fires and explosions in environments that may contain flammable liquids, vapors, dust, or residues. Non-sparking tools are best used when working in confined spaces and in areas where flammable gases or dust are present.
Common materials used for non-sparking tools include brass, bronze, copper-nickel alloys, copper-aluminum alloys, or copper-beryllium alloys. Beryllium alloys are less popular due to the potential toxicity of beryllium dust. Non-metals such as wood, leather, and plastic can also be used to make non-sparking tools.
Some common tools available in non-sparking options include hammers, axes, pry bars, chisels, hobby knives, mallets, pliers, screwdrivers, sockets, and wrenches. Non-sparking polypropylene shovels are commonly used for hazardous material spill cleanup.
Because non-sparking tools are non-ferrous, they are softer than standard tools usually made of high-strength alloy steel. This can cause non-sparking tools to wear out faster than steel tools.
Non-Sparking Socket Wrench
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) standard for hand and portable power tools and equipment [29 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 1910.242(a)] states that "Each employer is responsible for the safe condition of tools and equipment used by employees, including those that may be provided by employees." It is critical that non-sparking tools be maintained in a safe condition.
Non-sparking tools are essential to any good toolkit. They involve a non-ferrous coating that makes accidental sparks a thing of the past. In addition, they are not magnetic. This is due to the lack of iron in their chemical composition, which makes them very useful in many different situations. There are several situations in which non-sparking tools must be used
An oil rig is basically a big bomb waiting to explode. Fortunately, non-sparking tools are an integral part of safety protocols for oil extraction operations. They do not recklessly cause sparks and may have prevented many potential explosions. The same is true for many natural gas extraction operations.
Not only can these tools be used for safety in potential explosion situations, but they are also well suited for the maintenance and repair of sanitary equipment. Magnetic resonance imaging machines often called MRIs, use large magnets to scan the brain. Because the metal composition of MRI tools does not contain iron, they are also non-magnetic tools. Titanium, for example, is 100% safe for use in diagnostic imaging and biomedical machines.
It is not absolutely necessary for mechanics to use non-sparking tools when working on a car, but if the car's gas tank is full, then caution may be the best approach. Again, the danger of a spark igniting a car's fuel tank is unlikely, but if you are an auto mechanic, be aware of this possibility.
Forklifts, pickers, carts, and conveyors in a chemical handling plant may need to be serviced at some point. Chemical plants are also the most likely place to find highly flammable materials. The use of non-sparking tools is a must here.
Weapons of war are very flammable. Guns, flamethrowers, real bombs, and everything in-between pose a real risk of accidental ignition from stray sparks. Having the right tools for the job is rarely more important than in an ammunition plant.
Safety should always be paramount in situations involving the endangerment of humans. Using flammable materials or strongly magnetic equipment is stressful enough without the constant threat of explosion. That's why spark-free tools are an important part of any balanced kit.
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