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Hand Tool Hazards and Protection Usually, hand and power tool hazards are caused through misuse and improper maintenance. You should remember the following when handling such tools: Do not use wrenches when their jaws are sprung; Never use impact tools, such as chisels and wedges, when their heads have mushroomed; Tools with loose, cracked or splintered handles should never be used You must never use a screwdriver as a chisel; Tools with taped handles should be checked first for any hidden cracks; Use Personal Protective Equipment, such as safety goggles and gloves; Keep floor surface where working free from debris and tripping or slipping hazards; Keep cutting tools sharp. Power Tool Hazards and Precautions Power tools could be extremely hazardous when used improperly. They must always be fitted with guards and safety switches. Here are some precautions you should take while handling such tools: Remember to disconnect all tools when they are not in use and also when their accessories are changed; Before servicing and cleaning all tools must be disconnected from the power source; People that are not involved with the work must be kept away from the work; Never hold the switch button while carrying a plugged-in tool; Before starting to work, make sure both your hands are free to operate the tool. You can do this by securing your work with clamps or a vice; Do not wear loose clothing and jewelry that can get caught in moving parts; Damaged electric tools must be removed and tagged with the words: ?Do Not Use?; Portable tools should never be carried by their cord; Electric cords must not be used to hoist or lower tools; All cords and hoses must be kept away from oil, heat and sharp edges at all times. Remember, it can only take one mistake! So be sensible and stay safe. Torque wrench basics Jason Miller If you have a boat trailer or have changed the spare tire on your car, a torque wrench is a required tool and is simple to use . Most people believe that “the tighter the better” is the way to go. Your average person will simply grab an impact wrench and tighten away. This is not the correct way to apply torque to your wheels or other critical fasteners. Too much torque can add stress to a lug nut and cause it to shear off. Also with head bolts, the torque on those bolts determines the amount of clamping force on the gasket. Over tightening those bolts can crush the gasket or distort the metal. The better way to apply the correct amount of foot pounds of torque is to use an accurate torque wrench. There are several different types of torque wrenches available out there. One type is the torque wrench with a dial indicator built into it. The dial indicates how many foot lbs of torque is being applied. Dial types are generally more accurate and easier to read. This model is generally the choice of professional mechanics where accurate measurement is necessary. The dial indicator is more precise and is easier to read. Some are available with a light or buzzer to indicate when a preset torque value is achieved. Another variation is the clicking type torque wrench. These are probably the most popular and readily available. This torque wrench makes a clicking sound when the preset torque is reached. This lets you know to stop applying force to the nut you are fastening and move to the next one. For most uses these type of wrenches work just fine and are rugged and easy to use. For the person who always the latest gadget, there are LED and LCD models available as well. The display shows the precise foot lbs of torque. These can usually switch between SAE and Metric as well. For most garage mechanics and home owners, the clicking type torque wrench is the best choice. Just remember to always check the manufacturer specs for the recommended torque. Next time, you need to tighten the nuts on your boat trailer, put down the impact wrench and grab a torque wrench. http://www.ideamarketers.com/./library/article.cfm?articleid=77216 | ||||||||||||||||||||
