Main hazards

• Spanner slipping, causing knuckle impacts or cuts to the hand.
• Pinch/crush points between the spanner and the work surface.
• Damage to nuts and bolts from incorrect size selection or over-tightening.
• Sudden breakage of bolts or accessories with possible flying fragments.
• Injuries due to excessive force, sudden jerks, or awkward postures.
• Electrical hazard if contacting live parts without adequate insulation.
• Tools falling from height, endangering people and property.
• Pinches in ratchet mechanisms or adjustable spanners.
• Loss of control due to grease, oil or dirt on hands or tool.

Safe use

• Choose the type of spanner and the exact size (metric or imperial) to match the bolt/nut.
• Seat the jaws or socket fully and keep the spanner aligned with the fastener.
• Whenever possible, pull the spanner towards you rather than pushing with your palm.
• Keep hands and tool clean and dry; wear gloves and eye protection when there is a risk of impact or flying debris.
• Do not extend the handle with pipes or bars, and avoid applying force with your foot.
• Do not strike the spanner or use it with power tools.
• For critical tightening, use a suitable torque wrench to avoid over-tightening.
• Stabilise the workpiece before starting; do not work on moving components.
• Check before use: cracks, worn jaws, play, or damaged ratchet teeth.
• Use only compatible sockets, adaptors and accessories of the same drive system and size.

Storage and maintenance

• Clean and dry after each use; remove oil residues, dust and metal swarf.
• Apply a light film of oil where appropriate to prevent corrosion.
• Store spanners in a case, rack or panel to prevent damage and loss.
• Separate and label metric and imperial sizes to avoid confusion.
• Protect from moisture, dust and corrosive environments.
• Lightly lubricate joints and ratchet mechanisms if specified by the manufacturer.
• Avoid harsh solvents that may damage handles or coatings.
• Replace bent or cracked spanners, those with rounded jaws, or ratchets that slip.
• Avoid drops from height and transport tools in a bag or case.

Restrictions on use

• Do not use spanners on live electrical installations except with tools specifically insulated and rated for that purpose.
• Do not use the spanner as a hammer, wedge, lever or screwdriver.
• Do not modify, heat or bend the tool to make it fit.
• Do not use improvised extensions or incompatible accessories.
• Do not work above people without securing the tool when necessary.
• Do not use the spanner if the fasteners are severely damaged; free the fastener before applying more force.
• Keep these tools out of reach of children and people unfamiliar with their use.