Tools are essential in almost every line of work. They help you get the job done – and get it done more efficiently.
But to get it done safely, your tools need to be in good condition.
Hand tools that are damaged or worn can put you at risk of injury and slow down your productivity.
It’s worth taking the time to maintain your tools and ensure that they’re going to last longer, work better, and make it far less likely that you’ll get hurt while using them. So, let’s go over some basic steps you should take.
Keep Your Blades Sharp
A dull blade makes it much harder for the tool to cut the way it should. To compensate, you’ll have to apply more force while using it.
That additional pressure will cause you to work harder and work longer. Worse, it can cause you to get hurt. Because when your tool doesn’t cut smoothly, there’s a greater chance that it will slip and cut you instead of the material you intended to slice through. There’s also a higher chance of kickback, which can also put you in harm’s way.
On top of that, all the force you’re applying is more likely to result in muscle strain or another ergonomic injury.
Sharpen the blades on your hand tools on a regular basis so they never get too dull. If needed, replace the blade entirely.
Inspect the Cord
The cord on your powered hand tool is made of tough stuff, but it can still wear down after a while.
Inspect it at least once per day when you use the tool. Make sure the insulating layer that covers the wiring has no signs of damage or cracking.
Even a small crack in the cord is an electrical and fire hazard, so retire the tool if the cord is damaged.
Make Sure the Blade Is Attached Properly
If your tool has a blade or a bit, there’s a chance it can loosen after repeated use. Working with a tool that has any loose components is risky – doubly so when those components are sharp.
Make sure the blade or bit is locked in place and secure before using the tool. If it has to be tightened or adjusted, take the time to do it. Putting it off is an incident just waiting to happen.
DIY repairs work for some things, but your work tools aren’t one of them.
Wrapping tape around a damaged cord might seem like an easy solution, but it doesn’t actually solve the problem. Neither does finding a way to clip the blade in place when the tool’s original components are damaged.
Unless your tools have been repaired by a technician or facility that has been certified by the manufacturer, continuing to use them could be risky.
Maintaining your hand tools is essential for your safety, but it’s also good for the tools themselves. Here are a few steps you can take to keep your tools in great shape and extend their usable life.
- If your tool has a removable battery (like on a portable drill), make sure you store it properly. Leaving the battery sitting out could shorten its life.
- Don’t let your tools overheat. If you feel the tool you’re using getting warm, turn it off and let it cool down for a while.
- Clean your tools regularly. Getting tools dirty is part of the job, but leaving them sit with grease, liquids, or dust covering them can cause them to wear down more quickly.
- Make sure your tools are dry when you put them away and store them in a cool, dry place.