It is the user’s obligation to keep equipment and tools in working order. Simple tools, such as pliers and a torque wrench are often used in various tasks. There are several types of pliers: diagonal pliers have sharp jaws, which are angled to become special for keyways.
Duckbill pliers are useful in narrow openings, pin removal, and installation. Cutting pliers are used for work on electrical equipment and preliminary cuts of electrical cables. They should always be isolated. Many people eventually remove the insulation in some situations, thus removing the protective property of the tool.
In addition, all tools require good cleaning and maintenance to keep them in optimal working condition. Other tools commonly used in work activities are wrenches: Always use wrenches that have the jaws in good condition and are of the right type and size for the job.
Never use shim between the wrench and the part to be threaded, because depending on the action that will be performed the tightening may be partial generating insecurity that may generate the work accident. Do not use the wrench as a hammer.
5 Tips to Keep Tools in Good Condition
1. Store Tools in Their Original Cases
Tools should be kept in an orderly manner in original cases and placed in cabinets, boxes, drawers, or panels. They must not be abandoned on walkways, scaffolding, or other work surfaces where they may fall or become obstacles.
Always store your tools in a safe place. Do not carry tools in pockets. Do not work with power tools if your hand is wet. Avoid pulling electrical cords, dragging them across the floor, or making any movement that forces them.
It is common for the worker to adopt a checklist with all the items that will be checked during the procedure. Thus, it will mark items that are in good condition as well as those that need maintenance.
When identifying the problem, the worker should inform the responsible professional about the incident, and the worker should make arrangements for repair as soon as possible. Do not use tools in poor condition or with the apparent defect. Try to replace or repair it. Do not improvise tools and give them improper functions.
2. Use Silica Gel Packs Or a Rust Collector
Strict maintenance of tools is an important factor for the proper performance of tasks and for worker safety. Maintenance should be performed by responsible, well-trained, and skilled personnel, a well-organized warehouse will allow perfect tool control, adequate tooling and in perfect working condition.
Silica Gel Packs
The use of silica gel packs has been shown to help keep different types of tools in good condition. Each equipment and tool has its own peculiarities, so it is essential that every professional knows in-depth how the work tool works.
Tools have one enemy that causes great damage: oxidation. All metals are prone to undergo oxidation due to direct contact with moisture, dust, and other deteriorating elements. When the parts are oxidized, the metals of the parts are degraded, destroying all their resistance and use.
Rust Prevention
Rust is such a damaging factor to tools that it can destroy them completely; hence, the need for a rust collector. To prevent rust from settling on your hand tools, special care must be taken. But what actually keeps the rust away from tools? White vinegar? Sodium bicarbonate? Lemon juice? Professional products?
Here are the recommended products for preventing rust-
- BOESHIELD T-9 Rust & Corrosion Protection (best spray to prevent rust)
- HOPPE’S No. 9 Lubricating Oil (best oil to prevent rust)
3. Keep Your Tools in A Dry Place
You need to understand the important storing tools in a cool, dry place. It is vital to keep them dry and protected from light and moisture, such as toolboxes, tool bags(our pick: CLC Custom Leathercraft 27 Pockets Tool Box). That besides protecting them also facilitates in the same safe transport. But it is not enough to store them correctly if the tools are not always clean, free of any residues such as dirt, paint, or grease.
Anti-corrosion oil is a professional item that is also indispensable for keeping brand new parts. A thin layer of oil is necessary to preserve them.
4. Clean Your Tools After Every Use
Clean the tool thoroughly and use a cloth or brush to apply it to the tool. Let it act for a few minutes and remove the excess. Repeat application every six months. This process is sufficient to preserve and extend the life of hand tools. But how do you remove rust from your hand tools?
How to Remove Rust
To begin rust removal, always remember to wear eye, nose, mouth, and hand safety equipment. When the metal of your tool is already corroded, it is time to start removing the loose rust and its scabs. Dispose of them immediately, even if only a little, to prevent rusty areas from spreading to the rest of the tool.
To clean them and remove all rust, always work in well-ventilated environments to avoid direct contact with acids. Take great care with chemicals that can damage and stain. Protect the environment with a plastic tarpaulin or clean inside a disposable container.
5. Use the Right Tools in the Right Position
Do not use pliers as hammers or torque wrenches, as they may shrapnel. This is because they have not suffered the same tempering system as the tool intended for this purpose. In addition, avoid using pliers on hardened surfaces, as it may damage the teeth and lose grip. Do not use pliers as a wrench either, otherwise, they will not trap and may damage a nut or bolt.
Pliers, like other tools, should be kept clean. Put some oil on the pivot pin. Remember that tools in good condition, service efficiency, and risk control of occupational accidents.
In some cases, depending on the activity, employees use these tools as if they were hammers. This often causes dents and burrs due to the heavy blows incurred. Do not extend the size of the switch cable through tubes.
Conclusion
A combination of optimal storage and cleaning ensures that your tools last longer and are safer to use. Some of the best cleaning solutions found at home include white vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice. Well, a lot of people like to improvise so as not to spend a lot of money.
But if you are wondering if they actually work, the answer is yes. Vinegar, for example, can absorb metal rust. Just dip the piece in vinegar, let it act for a while, and you are done. Rust free. Another option is adding silica gel packs or pieces of chalk to the toolboxes.
It may sound weird but chalk can absorb excess moisture almost immediately. However, it is worth remembering that it cannot handle large amounts of water vapor and it is necessary to constantly change the chalk.
In addition, when rust has already accumulated, the tool may be cleaned with a thinner and a steel sponge or dipped into a container with running water and dilute citric acid powder. These tips are vital when thinking about how do you keep tools in good condition.
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