All hand and power tools must be in a __________ condition.

The requirement that all hand and power tools be in a safe condition is rooted in OSHA standards aimed at ensuring workplace safety. Tools that are deemed safe are those that do not pose any hazards to employees using them or those who may be nearby. This includes having no defects that could lead to injury, ensuring that guards are in place, and functioning correctly to avoid malfunctions that could cause an accident.

While the concepts of being working, normal, or functional may seem similar, they do not fully encompass all aspects of safety. For instance, a tool may be in working or functional condition, meaning that it operates as intended, but it could still have safety issues, such as worn parts or inadequate protective measures that could lead to accidents. Therefore, defining the condition of tools strictly as "safe" ensures that they meet thorough safety standards beyond mere operational capability.

In practice, "safe condition" requires ongoing inspection, maintenance, and adherence to safety protocols, which is essential in a construction environment where the risk of injury can be significant. This prioritization of safety aligns with OSHA's mission to protect workers and reduce occupational hazards.