As with any other tool, it’s important to remember best safety practices when you use your glue gun to adhere objects together. In this blog we will go over some advice on glue gun safety so you do not have to worry when you use yours for work jobs or hobby crafts.
Glue Gun Risks
Glue guns are designed for a number of uses and by people of all ages. There are even glue guns for children. This is possible because both the guns and hot-melt adhesive glue are generally safe to use. Poor quality glue guns can pose a safety risk, like the Crafter’s Square glue gun recalled by Dollar Tree earlier this year. It’s worth the extra money to purchase a high quality glue gun that you can use without worry.
The tip of the glue gun can get very hot, and the glue in its molten state can also burn skin, so injury is possible. However, by taking the right safety measures, these risks can be avoided.
Glue Gun Safety
- Most hot glue gun injuries are burns to the fingers and hands. To avoid burns, use your glue gun carefully along with protective safety gear like gloves, long-sleeved shirts, and safety glasses. The hot glue can also damage surfaces like tables, so using a drip mat is advised.
- Before you plug in your glue gun, check to see if there is any damage to the casing or fraying of the cord. Keep it away from flammable materials, and use it in a clean, dry, well-ventilated work environment.
- Only run your glue gun at the recommended temperature which is designed to avoid overheating the glue and creating toxic vapors.
- Do not lay a hot glue gun on its side or tilt a hot glue gun upward. Use the safety stand to keep it upright when you are not using it.
- Do not leave a hot glue gun unattended for the same reason. This is a fire hazard. Unplug it if you are not using it right away. It doesn’t take long for a glue gun to heat up, and it’s not worth risking a fire for convenience if you need to step away from your task..
- To remove the nozzle, unplug the glue gun and allow it to cool down until warm, but not cold. Do not touch the warm nozzle without protective gloves.
- If you get hot glue on your skin or in your eyes, rinse or submerge the area in cold water immediately. Do not try to remove the melted glue from the skin as it might open a deeper wound. Seek medical attention if serious injury has resulted.
A high quality glue gun used in the correct way is a great tool for flooring, woodworking, decorative crafts, household repairs, and more. Safety first is always the way to go, though. If you have any questions about the right glue gun for your project, call Bond Products at 1-888-800-BOND. Our customer service representatives will be happy to help you find what you need.
