A Simple Guide to Buying and Using a Jackhammer Safety

A jackhammer is a powerful hand tool powered by liquid, electricity or gas that combines both a chisel and a hammer. It’s most commonly used to break pavement and concrete and it is an extremely popular tool used by builders. So whether you’re looking for a small hand-held jackhammer for doing some small household work, or a full sized model to break apart concrete and pavement, there’s a wide variety of types that suit different requirements.

In the right hands, the jackhammer can be an invaluable tool used for many purposes, but if used incorrectly, it can be quite dangerous. There’s more than one type of jackhammer Australia builders use, and they all vary based on the way they’re powered: electric, hydraulic and pneumatic.

Electric Jackhammers

Electric-powered jackhammer drills need an external power source to operate, but don’t require a compressor. They’re useful for places where accessing a compressor is limited, unsafe, or not possible at all, such as inside buildings. Electric jackhammers are best suited for work in small construction projects and inside the home.

Hydraulic Jackhammers

Hydraulic jackhammers are typically larger and are most commonly used by professionals for quarrying and roadwork. More advanced models allow for portable breakers which consist of the jackhammer drill being connected with a hydraulic hose. They’re far more efficient than the pneumatic types, which makes them more powerful and cheaper.

Pneumatic Jackhammers

This type uses compressed air as a power source from a portable air compressor. These aren’t the most practical and cheapest option and aren’t as popular as the other two types.

Bits/Chisels

There are several types of chisels and bits that can be integrated with a jackhammer, including a stake driver, flat tip, spade, scrabbler, point, brushing tools and a flex chisel. All of these have a different purpose and are interchangeable, making the jackhammer Australia most popular tool among builders.

Safety Tips for Using Jackhammers

As aforementioned, this tool can pose a danger if used incorrectly, so it’s critical that all users should follow the following safety precautions:

• Wear protective clothing: eye protection, gloves, hearing protection, steel toe boots
• Don’t use it for extensive amounts of time, alternate or rest where necessary
• Store the drill and compressors in safe places
• Inspect the jackhammer before using it, check for cracks or breaks in fraying and hoses or breakage in electric wires
• Use the correct chisel/bit for the job
• Don’t use the jackhammer beyond a cutting bit
• Use water compression where necessary and check for dust
• Shut it off appropriately after using it
• Release the trigger when lifting the jackhammer
• Put the electric cord over your shoulder to avoid potential electrocution and swerving