TRD/Highways/TBT-TRD-027

Cartridge Operated Tools

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Cartridge Operated Tools

Toolbox Talk Record

Ref: TBT-TRD-027  |  Issue: 1  |  Date: April 2026
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What?

  • Cartridge tools use explosive charges to drive fixings into concrete, steel, and masonry at high velocity.
  • They are classified as firearms under UK law — the Firearms Act 1968 applies to their storage and use.
  • Only trained and certificated operatives may use cartridge tools — untrained use is a criminal offence.
  • The cartridge provides the energy — stronger cartridges (colour coded) are used for harder substrates.
  • Free-flying fixings from older direct-acting tools can penetrate walls and injure people on the other side.
  • Modern indirect-acting (piston) tools are significantly safer and are the standard for construction use.
  • Cartridge tools generate extreme noise levels exceeding 130 dB — hearing protection is mandatory.
  • Misfires must be handled according to the manufacturer's procedure — never look into the barrel.
  • Cartridges and tools must be stored in separate locked containers when not in use on site.
  • PUWER 1998 requires cartridge tools to be maintained, inspected, and used by competent persons only.

Why?

Firearms classificationCartridge tools are legally classed as firearms — misuse, poor storage, or untrained operation is a criminal offence.
Penetration injuriesFixings fired at high velocity can penetrate concrete, walls, and body tissue causing fatal injuries.
Noise exposureA single cartridge discharge exceeds 130 dB — repeated use without hearing protection causes permanent damage.
DoDon't
  • Hold a valid cartridge tool operator certificate before using any cartridge tool.
  • Inspect the tool, barrel, and safety mechanisms before each use as per the manual.
  • Select the correct cartridge colour and fixing length for the substrate material.
  • Press the tool firmly against the surface at 90 degrees before firing.
  • Wear hearing protection, eye protection, and safety boots during all operations.
  • Check behind and around the fixing point for people, voids, and services.
  • Store cartridges and tools in separate locked containers when not in use.
  • Follow the misfire procedure exactly — wait 30 seconds before clearing.
  • Keep unused cartridges in the original strip — never loose in pockets.
  • Return defective tools to the supplier — never attempt your own repairs.
  • DON'T use a cartridge tool without a valid operator training certificate.
  • DON'T fire into brittle materials like glass, tile, cast iron, or thin steel.
  • DON'T point the tool at anyone, loaded or unloaded, at any time.
  • DON'T look into the barrel to investigate a misfire or blockage.
  • DON'T fire fixings closer than 50mm to an edge — the substrate may shatter.
  • DON'T use a stronger cartridge than the substrate and fixing require.
  • DON'T carry a loaded cartridge tool between work positions on site.
  • DON'T store tools and cartridges together in the same container overnight.
  • DON'T fire through a wall without confirming nobody is on the other side.
  • DON'T leave cartridge tools unattended or accessible to untrained persons.

See also: Angle Grinder Safe Use | Noise Induced Hearing Loss Prevention
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