A wrench doesn’t pose the safety hazards of a power saw or other power tool, but you can still hurt yourself if you aren’t mindful of basic safety guidelines.
- Don’t strike a wrench with a hammer or other object to gain force.
- Don’t push on the wrench, which can lead you to slip. Instead, you should pull the wrench towards you.
- Never use a wrench on moving machinery.
- Be sure an adjustable wrench is in full contact with the nut before turning it.
- Stand with your legs slightly spread for better balance should the wrench slip. This can help you avoid a fall.
- Match the size of the wrench to the size of the fastener. A wrench that’s too big is likelier to slip.
- Pull smoothly on the wrench. Avoid jerky motions, which can cause the wrench to slip.
- Don’t add a pipe or other “sleeve” to a wrench’s handle to increase leverage.
- Never use a wrench that’s broken, bent, or worn.
