A common cause of occupational injury is being struck by a flying object.
Reasons for injury:
(1) failure of power equipment (saw blade coming off or breaking)
(2) flying debris generated by the power tool
(3) misfire of compressed air equipment such as a nail gun
(4) explosion of a powder-actuated tool
(5) accidental release of debris after strenuous pulling, pushing, prying, etc
(6) accidental release of a hand tool (slipping from the hand)
(7) failure of a hand tool (broken handle, hammer head coming off)
Risk factors for injury:
(1) failure to maintain and inspect equipment
(2) setting air pressure on an air compressor too high
(3) failure to wear PPE (hard hat, eye protection, face shield, work boots)
(4) monkeying around
(5) intoxication
(6) using an air compressor for cleaning the work surface at pressure > 30 psi
(7) using compressed air to clean clothing
(8) workers untrained or inexperienced in the use of tools
(9) guards missing or set improperly
(10) cluttered work area
(11) not following manufacturer's instructions in use and care of equipment
Differential diagnosis:
(1) struck by a falling object
(2) struck by a swinging object
