Tool Usage & Maintenance Rules

Hand tools shоuld not be used fоr purposes other than they are designed for. Their material strength is always designed according to the nature of the work to be performed. Tools being misused may be dangerous.

There are several basic rules that should be remembered:

  • Purchase quality tools - with tools, you usually get what you pay for. Quality tools are lighter, stronger, easier to use, and more dependable than off-brand instruments. Many manufacturers of quality products provide guarantees. This can save money in the long run.
  • Keep tools organized - a technician has hundreds of different instruments. For the tools to be found quickly, they should be neatly arranged. There should be a place for every tool and it should be in its place. If tools are just thrown into the toolbox, time and effort are wasted on "digging and searching" instead of doing the job.
  • Keep your tools clean. A greasy or oily tool can be dangerous! It is very easy to lose a grip on a dirty tool, cutting or breaking a finger or hand.
  • Use the right tool for the job - even though several different tools may be used to loosen a bolt, usually one will do a better job. It may be faster, grip the bolt better, be less likely to break, or require less physical effort. A good technician knows when, where, and why a particular tool will work better than another.

The time spent maintaining your tools and toolbox is well spent. Well-organized tools will save time on each job and help you get more work done.