Tools are an umbrella term for an arsenal of mechanical gear and accessories that are used in tooling trades, and specialized industries such as the carpentry, automobile, and, of course, oil and gas. Manufactured using only high-grade materials for maximum durability and strength, tools fall under three broad categories - hand-held, battery-operated, and electrical 'power' tools.
Thanks to DIY dads and home workmen, most people are already familiar with what hand tools are. The endless list includes spanners, screw drivers, pliers, wenches, hammers, nut sets, measuring tools, allen keys, saws, hand drills and filing tools among others. They offer users a wide range of applications over various industrial projects, and come in an assortment of sizes for increased versatility. Most hand tools are sold in a set that either bundles together different sizes of the same tool, or different tools that might be used together.
On the other hand, we have power tools. While the word might conjure up images of jackhammers grinding through concrete or the ear-splitting sound of a drill, the term is actually much more far-reaching than the stereotypes it embodies. Power tools refer to any device that requires an external power supply - batteries, electricity, etc - to run, and encompasses common consumer electronics like lawnmowers, vacuum cleaners, and drills to large scale tools that are used in the field. Their versatility makes them of great use in industry, in construction, in the garden, for housework tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and around the house for purposes of driving (fasteners), drilling, cutting, shaping, sanding, grinding, routing, polishing, painting, heating and more.
Popular power tools include Air compressors, angle grinders, bandsaws, belt sanders, biscuit joiners, chainsaws, chop saws, circular saws, disc sanders, drills, hammer drills, heat guns, impact drivers, impact wrenches, jointers, jigsaw, lathe, miter saws, nail guns, orbital sanders, oscillating tools, planers, power screwdrivers, radial arm saws, reciprocating saws, rotary tools, routers, scroll saws, shop vacuums, table saws, and wall chasers.
Power tools are a ubiquitous feature in modern life. They're used by homeowners all the way to the professionals at construction sites and home builders, to the middle of the pack in gardens, hobbyists, garages, metalworkers, down to the unique renovations, do-it-yourself enthusiasts, and basically anyone needs to do some work with a little extra power that the human hand, or body really, isn’t feasible enough. Well-built tools are simple, easy to learn, cost-effective, are easily set up, portable/transferable, easy to adapt, and intuitive to use.
When purchasing a new power tool, look for built-in safety features like an automatic lockout, enclosed or covered blades, and/or a dust collection kit. Also look for double insulated tools, which help protect users from electric shock. Make sure that your tool comes with an adequate warranty so that you can address concerns and manufacturing issues directly to the parent company. This also ensures that you’ll be notified of any recalls or other safety information in the event of a problem with your model.
Before using your power tool, read through this list of common do's and do not's from the folks over at Safety.com:
- Do not operate tools when over tired or if you’re under the influence of drugs or alcohol as the risk of injury will increase.
- Tie back any long hair and remove loose clothing or jewelry. If a tool calls for specific safety equipment, such as glasses or a hard hat to be worn when operating, do so. If you’re going to be using a loud tool for an extended period of time, consider using earplugs or noise muffling headphones in order t-o protect your hearing. You might also need a dust mask, depending on the tool you’re using.
- Ensure the power is turned off to any tool before plugging it in or installing a battery pack.
- Be aware of any safety symbols or warning icons on your tool and follow the recommendations for safe operation. Only use a tool for its intended job.
- When using a saw, ensure you do not use your hands to push material through to the blade, but rather use another piece of ‘junk’ wood to push an item through.
- If necessary, use clamps to hold material in place. Always wait for all moving components of a power tool to stop before removing clamps or changing any parts.
- Keep all tools out of reach of children, and do not operate near wet or otherwise dangerous surfaces. A safe work area is essential.
- If using an extension cord, ensure it is out of the way and not a trip hazard. Outdoor use of power tools calls for an outdoor-rated cord. And, don’t forget that 3-pronged (grounded) tools must be plugged into the proper outlet – never under any circumstances should you remove the third prong or modify a plug in any way.
- In all cases of injury or accident, stop using the tool immediately and when possible, disable the power source.
- In case of a cut, pinch or other mild injury, immediately remove yourself from the area and seek first aid treatment when necessary.
- If a more serious accident should occur, do not hesitate to contact 9-1-1.
- Unplug your power tools before cleaning in order to prevent any nasty surprises. Take them to a professional if you are nervous or unsure about cleaning them yourself. Maintaining your tools properly can help prolong their life and keep them safe for many years to come.
- Take extra care when cleaning or changing out the blades of cutting tools such as saws. They will be especially sharp and can easily cut you.
- Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and cleaning of your tools, and don’t hesitate to contact them if you should have a question about something specific that isn’t covered in your user manual.