SAFETY CORNER
FEBRUARY 2026
STAY sAFE IN THE sHOP—pOWER tOOLS & eQUIPMENT cHECKS
February Theme: National Burn Awareness Week (February 2-8)
Burns, shocks, and fires don’t usually come from freak accidents—they come from worn cords, skipped inspections, and getting too comfortable around equipment. Whether you’re in the shop or out in the field, February is a good reminder that fire and burn hazards deserve constant respect. This month, Curry Construction is reinforcing the fundamentals that keep hands intact, equipment running safely, and everyone going home the way they showed up.
Inspect Cords, Tools, and Equipment
Power tools don’t fail politely—they fail fast.
- Check cords before every use: Look for fraying, exposed wires, cracked insulation, or loose plugs. If it’s damaged, tag it out—no exceptions.
- Inspect tools for wear: Guards, switches, and safety features must be in place and functioning.
- Use the right tool for the job: Forcing a tool increases the risk of overheating, sparks, and failure.
- Keep equipment clean: Dust, grease, and metal shavings can create fire and burn hazards.
PPE: Non-Negotiable Protection
Personal Protective Equipment exists because experience alone doesn’t stop injuries.
- Wear proper hand protection: Use gloves appropriate for the task—cut-resistant, heat-resistant, or insulated as needed.
- Eye and face protection matter: Safety glasses and face shields protect against sparks, flying debris, and flash burns.
- Dress for the work: Flame-resistant clothing where required; no loose sleeves or dangling clothing near rotating equipment.
- Hearing protection counts: Protecting your hearing keeps you alert and aware of equipment issues.
Fire and burn prevention around equipment
Heat, sparks, and fuel are a dangerous mix when ignored.
- Keep flammables stored properly: Rags, solvents, and fuels should be kept away from heat sources.
- Maintain clear work areas: Clutter increases the chance of fire and delays response time.
- Know where extinguishers are: Fire extinguishers should be accessible—and you should know how to use them.
- Shut down equipment correctly: Power down and unplug tools before maintenance or blade changes.
Quick Builder’s Shop Safety Checklist
- Inspect cords, plugs, and tools before use
- Wear the right PPE for the task—every time
- Keep flammable materials away from sparks and heat
- Maintain clean, organized work areas
Bottom line: Burns and fires are preventable when fundamentals are followed. Inspect your equipment, wear your PPE, and respect heat and power tools for what they are. National Burn Awareness Week is a reminder that shortcuts don’t save time—they create injuries. Do it right, every time.
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