Procedures in Cleaning, Tightening and Simple Repair of Hand Tools, Equipment and Paraphernalia

Hand tools and equipment are subjected to different levels of abuse while in use. These abuses may result in the tools being dirty, loosely connected or even damaged. Before using any tool or equipment, it is a must that they be inspected properly to ensure that they are operational and safe.

The things needed to keep hand tools, equipment and paraphernalia clean are the following:

1. Make sure that the workplace is properly organized.
2. The work area must always be kept neat and tidy.
3. All tools and equipment must be placed in a clean and dry place.
4. Clean tools and equipment work more efficiently, this lessens the effort needed to operate them and reduces the possibility of mishaps.Before cleaning any tool, be sure to wear the proper personal protective equipment (PPE). 
5. Gloves, masks and goggles are usually worn when cleaning tools since most cleaning agents and solutions are harmful to the human body.
6. Only use cleaning agents as prescribed by the tool or equipment’s manufacturer. 
7. Follow the cleaning procedures as well to make sure that no damage will be inflicted on the tools.
8. Cleaning the tools after use is highly recommended.

Tools with moving parts often suffer loosening of its parts. This is normal since these segments keep on moving. A tool with loose parts will not function properly and may cause injuries.Gripping tools such as a plier is an example that needs tightening. A plier’s rivet must be well tightened to be able to grip properly.Lubricants must also be applied after tightening to reduce the friction.Driving tools’ handles must also be tightened to reduce hand strain when turning. A loosely connected handle will make it almost impossible to use it.

In doing simple repair of tools, make sure that you are knowledgeable in doing so. Repairing tools without sufficient skills may result to further damage or inflict injuries to the fixer. Small repairs like tightening, sharpening and changing of handles may not require special skills to do. Power tools and specialized equipment on the other hand may require specialized skills in repairing. It is recommended that complicated tools and equipment be brought to the authorized service center. If a tool or equipment is beyond repair, it must be disposed properly.


REMEMBER : It is the responsibility of everyone to maintain the good operating condition of all the hand tools, equipment and paraphernalia in the workplace. Since these tools help in the completion of the different job requirements, keeping them well preserved will make work easier and more efficient.

Source: https://school.quipper.com/en-PH/index.html