Hammers and other striking tools are widely used and often abused. Hammers are made for specific purposes in various types and sizes, and with striking surfaces of varying hardness. For example, hammers are used for general carpentry, framing, nail pulling, cabinet making, assembling furniture, upholstering, finishing, riveting, bending or shaping metal, striking masonry drill and steel chisels, and so on. Hammers are designed according to the intended purpose. Select a hammer that is comfortable for you and that is the proper size and weight for the job.
Misuse can cause the striking face to chip, possibly causing a serious injury.
Ensure that the head of the hammer is firmly attached to the handle. Replace loose, cracked or splintered handles. Discard any hammer with mushroomed or chipped face or with cracks in the claw or eye sections. Wear safety glasses or a faceshield. Strike a hammer blow squarely with the striking face parallel to the surface being struck.