What should be avoided to maintain the safety of impact tools?

Preventing mushrooming is crucial to maintaining the safety of impact tools. Mushrooming refers to the deformation of the hammer head or striking surface, leading to a bulbous shape. This condition can create a significant safety hazard, as a misshapen hammer head may chip or shatter during use, potentially causing injury to the user or bystanders. Ensuring that tools are in good shape without any mushrooming helps maintain their integrity and effectiveness during operation.

Other factors such as overusing tools, using worn handles, or using tools above shoulder height can also compromise safety and effectiveness but do not directly relate to the structural integrity of the striking surface like mushrooming does. Addressing mushrooming ensures that tools remain reliable and safe for use in various applications.