Main risks

• Punctures and cuts when handling nails due to their sharp points.
• Flying particles and splinters when hammering or using nail guns; risk of eye injury.
• Nail ricochet on very hard or misaligned surfaces.
• Damage to hidden cables or pipes when nailing into walls, ceilings or floors, with potential electric shock or leakage.
• Fixing failure due to incorrect type/size selection or corrosion, leading to the secured object falling.
• Trip or puncture hazards if loose nails remain in the work area.

Safe use

• Wear safety glasses or goggles and robust gloves; closed-toe footwear to prevent foot injuries.
• Choose the nail type and size appropriate to the material and intended load; follow the manufacturer’s instructions for both the material and the tool.
• Before nailing into walls, ceilings or floors, check for the absence of cables and pipes with an appropriate detector.
• Hold the nail by the head area with fingers clear of the strike; a clamp or holder can help avoid hitting your fingers.
• Work on stable, well-lit surfaces; maintain a firm stance and keep the area clear.
• Avoid nailing too close to edges to prevent splitting; in hardwoods or very close to an edge, consider drilling a pilot hole if appropriate.
• If using nail guns, use only compatible nails; disconnect or lock the tool when reloading and never point it towards people. Consider hearing protection if noise levels are high.
• Remove and safely dispose of bent or damaged nails; do not attempt to straighten severely deformed nails.
• After installation, check that no points protrude and protect or finish exposed areas.

Storage and maintenance

• Store nails in closed, labelled containers, out of the reach of children and pets.
• Keep them in a dry, ventilated place to reduce corrosion; avoid humidity and sudden temperature changes.
• Keep nails away from corrosive substances and sources of extreme heat.
• Periodically inspect and separate rusty nails or those with burrs or deformations to prevent cuts and fixing failures.
• Transport in sturdy boxes or organisers; do not carry them loose in pockets.
• At the end of the job, pick up fallen nails and use a magnet or broom to remove metal debris from the floor.

Restrictions of use

• Not suitable for suspending critical loads, climbing, safety equipment or structural fixings unless expressly specified by the system.
• Do not use nails incompatible with the tool (gauge, length or shape); consult the tool’s compatibility guide.
• Do not reuse extracted or heavily bent nails.
• Do not use nails intended for indoor use outdoors or in damp environments; choose options with appropriate corrosion protection where necessary.
• Do not nail in areas where hidden services may be present without first verifying their routing.
• Do not allow children to handle them; if children are present, work under supervision and keep the items out of their reach.