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Describe Proper Use and Maintenance of Tools and Equipment Clean, Inspect and Care For Tools
Describe Proper Use and Maintenance of Tools and Equipment Clean, Inspect and Care For Tools
Garcia
ME2A2
Cold chisels, log-splitting wedges and other striking tools can be very
dangerous if they are not maintained properly. Because these types of tools
are used for repeated striking, the surface of the metal head eventually
mushrooms out and spreads to form a lip or ridge around the edge. With
continued use, there is more spreading and the metal lip may continue to thin,
split or curl until it finally breaks. If the metal head separates from the handle
while in use, this could result in a dangerous projectile. To prevent this
hazard, just grind off the metal edges with a powered grinder on a regular
basis.
SAFETY ALERTS!
Don’t use tools that need repair or replacement. Broken tools can cause
injury.
Don’t use tools inappropriately; you risk injury to yourself, others and damage
to the tools.
After cleaning, use an all-purpose oil, such as WD-40® to lubricate tools with
adjustable parts. Lightly spray other metal tool parts as well (avoid getting oil
on handles), such as screwdrivers and bladed lawn and garden tools. Wipe
away any excess with a rag before storing. This will help fight corrosion and
rust.
If your tools already show signs of rust, there are a number of rust
removers available at True Value, such as Evapo-Rust Rust Remover. You
can also try spraying tools with WD-40® and then scrubbing them with steel
wool or a stiff wire brush. Afterwards, wash them with warm, soapy water and
scrub them again with a cloth or rag until all signs of rust are gone. Then dry
them thoroughly with a clean, dry rag. Apply a light coat of WD-40® and wipe
away excess oil fore storing.
SAFETY ALERT!
You should wear heavy gloves when cleaning or removing rust from tools that
can cut. Wear safety goggles when using a wire brush to remove rust.
HELPFUL TIPS
Use a small tool bag for the tools you use most often such as tools for simple
jobs around the house. The rest of your tool arsenal can remain in your main
toolbox.
You should have a space where you can inspect your tools and perform
necessary maintenance tasks, such as a worktable. Cover it with newspaper
or plastic sheeting to protect the table and make it easier to clean up after
you're done with the job.
Hang lawn and garden tools, such as shovels and rakes, on a wall to get them
off of the ground and to protect them from moisture.
Power Tools
Power tools such as electric drills, saws, sanders and nailers need routine
maintenance just like your hand tools. Because of their mechanical and
electrical parts, power tools are more susceptible to problems caused by poor
maintenance, dust and debris accumulation and general malfunction. The
following are some helpful tips on how to clean and properly store your tools.
HELPFUL TIP
Using an air compressor or a can of compressed air to blow air into vents and
crevices is the best way to remove dirt and dust from inside tools.
For tools that use filters, replace the filters as specified by the manufacturer’s
instructions.
HELPFUL TIP
Remember to keep instruction manuals for all of your tools. They are provided
to you by the manufacturer so that you can safely and competently operate
your tools. They’ll also have valuable information on how to care for the tool,
find replacement parts and other important pieces of information. Store
manuals either in a toolbox drawer or a cabinet in your workspace/storage
area so that they are readily available.
SAFETY ALERT!
Always unplug electric tools when cleaning them or making any repairs to
avoid the danger of electric shock. It’s also a good practice to unplug them
when not in use.
Batteries remain working at peak level by fully charging and then fully
discharging their power once every couple of weeks. Don’t let batteries sit
unused for extended periods of time. Try to use batteries once every two
weeks.
Care for batteries by cleaning contacts with cotton swabs and alcohol. Store
batteries you won’t be using for a while in a dry, clean place away from
excessive heat.