rior to using any pneumatic tool, the operator must read and understand the operating and safety instructions provided with each tool. The operator should be verbally instructed by his supervisor on the safe operating practices when working with pneumatic tools.

Eye protection must be worn at all times when operating American Pneumatic Tools, Inc. hammers (or any air tools), any debris large or small can become a projectile. All visitors or other personnel in the immediate area where an air tool is being used must also wear eye and ear protection. Eye protectors must meet the following requirements:

Provide adequate protection against hazards for which they are designed.
Be reasonably comfortable when worn under the designated condition.
Fit snugly without interfering with the movements or vision of the wearer
Be durable
Be capable of being disinfected and cleaned
Be kept in good working condition

Impact resistant face protection should be used in situations where there is exposure to tool operation or when deemed necessary. Impact resistant face protection should be worn over the eye protection and is not intended to take the place of eye protection.

Safety shoes and/or steel toe shoes must be worn at all times by anyone operating pneumatic tools or by anyone in the immediate area.

Safety hard hats must be worn at all times by anyone operating pneumatic tools, particularly when doing overhead work or by anyone in the immediate area.

Loose fitting clothing or jewelry of any type must not be worn when operating pneumatic tools.

All APT tools must be inspected to make sure they are working properly prior to operation. All components must be checked to make sure they are tight and there are no missing or damaged parts. DO NOT turn the tool towards your body or towards anyone else. ALWAYS work with the tool firmly pointed toward the workface. Operation of hammer without the impact being applied to workface may result in injury and damage to the hammer. NEVER adjust, remove, repair, or store American Pneumatic Tools, Inc. hammers without disconnecting the air supply first. NEVER change tool steel or any accessories without disconnecting the air supply and relieving the hose of air pressure. NEVER leave an idle tool connected to the air supply to prevent accidental actuation. The air supply must be turned off at the source or at the air compressor. Keep all spectators away from the work area. If there must be spectators, they must be kept at a safe distance from the workplace where pneumatic tools are being operated. ALWAYS inspect the tool steel carefully for cracks or damage. NEVER operate pneumatic equipment with damaged tool steel. Be sure the tool steel is properly sharpened. Consult your tool steel catalog for proper selection of tool steel for the application. DO NOT touch tool steel or other air hammer accessories while the tool is working. Wear gloves and make sure rubber handles fitted with all APT T-handle models are in place. NEVER attempt to use a pneumatic tool without a retainer. ALWAYS inspect retainers for damage or excessive wear and do not use damaged or worn retainers. Check all bolts for proper torques. American Pneumatic Tools, Inc. suggests the use of air regulators to ensure a recommended air pressure of 90 psi. ALWAYS inspect all air hoses for cracks, worn threads, damaged or loose quick disconnect couplings in order to prevent injury resulting from a whipping air hose. Look out for excess air hose around the work area to prevent tripping and falling. Ensure proper footing and balance when operating any air tool.

The nature of the work with pneumatic tools can be uncomfortable to the operator. Prolonged use of pneumatic tools can lead to "white fingers" or other related vibration caused health disorders. American Pneumatic Tools, Inc. offers ergonomic air hammers designed specifically to reduce the harmful vibration to the hands and arms of the tool operator. APT ergonomic tools improve the operator's safety and comfort without reducing the power of the tool.

Prolonged exposure to noise caused by normal operation of pneumatic equipment may lead to hearing disorders. OSHA regulates the maximum sound level to which an operator may be exposed. Hearing protection should be used by anyone operating pneumatic equipment or anyone exposed to noise caused by the operation of pneumatic equipment. American Pneumatic Tools, Inc. recommends the use of APT mufflers designed to reduce the noise level of APT Air Tools.
Please take the time to ensure your safety and that of others. It is impossible to cover in this catalog all the possible dangers of operating pneumatic tools, ALWAYS use common sense and good judgement. If you have any doubts concerning the safe operation of American Pneumatic Tools, Inc. air hammers contact the APT factory at (800) 532-7402 or (310) 538-2600. Please make sure operators read and understand the safety label bonded to each American Pneumatic Tools, Inc. air hammer. Please take the time to read the safety instructions sheet enclosed with each tool at the time it is sold and the safety information in this catalog. Please contact your nearest distributor or American Pneumatic Tools, Inc. should you require extra copies of safety instructions. All air tool operators should be properly trained in the safe and efficient use of pneumatic equipment. Any defective or malfunctioning APT air tool should be immediately disconnected from the compressor and returned to the APT factory for repair or to an authorized American Pneumatic Tools, Inc. service center.