Proper use of Computer Hand Tools and Equipment

Hand Tools and Why They Still Matter – Although everyone seems to have power
saws, lathes, drills, planers, and battery power capacity has improved, the basic
tools like hammers, screwdrivers, and wrenches will always have a place in your
toolbox. Care and maintenance of these tools are sometimes handed down
generation to generation, and they are cleaned and oiled to keep clean and
carefully stored in your basement or garage workshop. Unfortunately there are
still injuries associated with the use of hand tools, and according to the
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), there are five basic safety
rules that can help prevent hazards when using hand tools: Keep all tools in good
condition with regular maintenance. Use the right tool for the job. Examine each
tool for damage before use and do not use damaged tools. Operate tools
according to the manufacturers’ instructions. Provide and use properly the right
personal protective equipment. Other suggestions when using hand tools are:
Using the wrong tool can be dangerous. Using a chisel as a screwdriver or a screw
driver as a chisel may cause the tip of the tool to break and fly off, hitting the user
or another person. Only use tools for their designated purpose. Always maintain
tools properly. If the wooden handle on a tool such as an ax or hammer is loose,
splintered, or cracked, the head of the tool may fly off and strike the user or
another person. Repair or replace damaged or worn tools. A wrench with its jaws
sprung might easily slip, causing hand injuries. If the wrench flies, it may strike the
user or another person. Impact tools such as chisels, wedges, and drift pins are
unsafe if they have mushroomed heads. The heads might shatter when struck,
sending sharp fragments flying.

Example Hand Tools

A hand tool is a device for performing work on a material or a physical system
using only hands. The hand tools can be manually used employing force, or
electrically powered, using electrical current. Examples of Hands tools
 Philips head screwdriver – Use to loosen or tighten crosshead
Screws

Flat head screwdriver – used to loosen or tighten slotted

screws

Torx screwdriver – used to loosen or tighten screws that

have a star-like depression on top, a feature
That is Found on laptop.

Hex Driver – sometimes called a nut driver, is used to

tighten nuts in the same way that a screwdriver
That tighten screws

Needle-nose pliers – used to hold small parts

Wire cutter – used to strip and cut wires

 Part retriever – used to retrieve parts from location that are
Too small for your hand to fit

Flashlight – used to light areas that you cannot see clearly.

Minimizing Hand Tool Risks

 Injuries cause by hand tools include cuts, burns, scrapes, sprains, eye injuries,
hearing loss, broken bones, and pulmonary (lung) disorders.
 The use of certain hand tools creates a lot of airborne dust and particles. The use
of sandpaper, planes, files, and saws, for example, may create sawdust or drywall
powder. Short-term exposure may cause minor irritation while long-term
exposure may cause chronic bronchitis, pneumonia, or other pulmonary
disorders. Wear filtering masks and eye protection when you are using a tool that
creates dust.
 Before operating any power tool for the first time, always read the manual to
familiarize yourself with the tool. If the manual is missing, contact the
manufacturer for a replacement.