CORRECT TOOLS MAKE HOME REPAIR EASIER
Compliments of the Hand Tools Institute
The Hand Tools Institute (HTI), an association of North American hand tool manufacturers, says that with the rising labor cost of professional craftsmen, more and more homeowners and other do-it-yourselfers are making their own repairs to save money. In the process of performing the unfamiliar electrical, plumbing or carpentry work, the novice may also be facing the task with hand tools either not suited for the job or misusing the ones he or she has. The results can be devastating, ranging from damaging work surface materials and tools to serious personal injury. This can be avoided, HTI states, if the tool user follows some simple rules. First, be certain that the hand tools used are the correct ones to do the job. For example, many persons are surprised to learn that there are at least 10 different types of wrenches, over 125 types of pliers, 12 types of screwdrivers, 15 types of hammers and many other tools that can save hours of labor and give the job a professional look. HTI also recommends the use of safety goggles when working with hand tools. Chances are you will be picking up a variety of tools on any given job. While some have more potential for personal injury than others, it pays to protect your eyes for the duration of the project. Here are some added pointers: Plastic covered pliers handles are for comfort only, not protection from electrical current. Claw hammers are for driving and removing finishing and common, unhardened nails. Don't strike other steel tools such as chisels, punches or masonry nails with a claw hammer. When working with a wrench, always pull the wrench, never push the wrench. Hand sockets should never be used on power or impact wrenches. Hand sockets usually have bright finish but may have black finish. Never use an axe to strike a wood splitting wedge, use a woodchopper's maul or a sledge and never use the axe as a splitting wedge. Discard any chisel or punch that is chipped or mushroomed. Don't use a screwdriver for prying, punching, chiseling, scoring or scraping. Screwdrivers should only be used to drive or remove screws. Never use an extension bar such as a length of pipe to increase leverage on a wrench. This could result in breakage of the wrench and personal injury. Ball peen hammers of appropriate size or hand drilling hammers should be used to strike chisels, punches and star drills. Do not use the claw hammer. Never use a C-clamp for hoisting or for supporting a scaffold or platform or for securing a load that may be carried on a vehicle or truck. Remember one tool is not enough; there are many types of wrenches, pliers, screwdriver, hammers, etc., each suitable for a specific job. Your selections should include an assortment of each of the commonly used hand tools - and always wear safety goggles. Manufacturing plays a central role in the economic growth of our nation, primarily through a unique, interdependent system of innovation that affects all sectors of the economy. By nurturing innovations from concepts through to full-fledged improvements in products and processes, American manufacturing is responsible for providing the basis for more jobs, improved productivity, prosperity and a higher quality of life. Support American Manufacturing. |