Effective Immediately – Compliance required across all McKercher Corporation sites.
McKercher Corporation has updated its Hammer Drill Operation Procedures to strengthen worker safety, eliminate preventable injuries, and ensure full compliance with AS/NZS safety standards. All team members operating hammer drills must follow these updated procedures and mandatory PPE requirements without exception.
Why These Updates Matter
Using a hammer drill exposes workers to various hazards, including high-speed debris, excessive noise, and airborne dust, all of which can lead to serious injuries and long-term health problems. These updates aim to:
- Eliminate preventable eye and hearing injuries.
- Reduce respiratory risks from dust exposure.
- Prevent hand and foot injuries caused by vibration and impact.
- Address fatigue and ergonomic strain from extended tool use.
Your safety, and that of your team, depends on strict adherence to these standards.
Mandatory PPE Requirements
All workers using a hammer drill must wear the following Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Each item is required for compliance with site and regulatory safety standards.
PPE Item | Purpose / Hazard Mitigated |
|---|---|
Safety Glasses (AS/NZS 1337.1:2010) | Protects against high-velocity debris. Sunglasses are not an acceptable substitute. |
Hearing Protection (Earplugs or Earmuffs) | Prevents hearing damage from prolonged exposure to high noise levels. |
Dust Mask or Respirator | Protects against dust inhalation and respiratory irritation, especially in enclosed or dusty environments. |
Gloves | Reduces vibration-related strain and protects hands from abrasion. |
High-Visibility Clothing | Ensures visibility to surrounding workers and machinery operators. |
Steel-Toe Boots | Protects feet from dropped tools, falling debris, and impact hazards. |
Long-Sleeved Shirts and Trousers | Shields skin from dust, debris, and minor abrasions. |
Why Sunglasses Are Not Sufficient
- They do not provide impact resistance against flying debris.
- They lack side shields, leaving eyes exposed.
- They do not meet AS/NZS 1337.1:2010 standards for industrial eye protection.
Only certified safety glasses are permitted for hammer drill operations.
Safe Work Practices
Adhering to PPE requirements is only part of safe operation. Every worker must also follow these essential safe work practices:
Pre-Work Inspections
Inspect all tools and PPE for damage before use.
Verify that cords, plugs, and drill bits are intact and secure.
Work Area Safety
Maintain a clean, organized workspace free of tripping hazards.
Keep bystanders clear of the drilling zone.
Proper Tool Handling
Use the correct drill bit for the material.
Do not force the tool; let the hammer action perform the work.
Maintain a firm, balanced stance during operation.
Breaks & Ergonomics
Take regular breaks to minimize fatigue and vibration exposure.
Adjust grip and posture to reduce strain on wrists, shoulders, and back.
Dust and Ventilation Control
Use dust extraction systems or wet drilling where possible.
Ensure adequate ventilation when operating indoors.
Compliance Expectations
Effective immediately, all hammer drill operations must comply with the updated personal protective equipment (PPE) and procedural standards. Supervisors are responsible for ensuring compliance. Failure to follow these safety requirements may result in disciplinary action and could lead to removal from site duties.
Safety is Everyone’s Responsibility
Every preventable injury impacts our team’s safety record and the well-being of our people. These updates go beyond compliance; they focus on ensuring everyone returns home safely at the end of each shift.
Issued by:
McKercher Corporation – Safety and Compliance Division
Effective Date: November 2025
