Use Hand Tools
Use Hand Tools
Learning Objectives:
After reading this INFORMATION SHEET, YOU MUST be able to:
1. Identify hand tools and its operations and functions.
2. Identify four types of Hardware tools
Hardware Tools
Hand Tools
Hex driver – sometimes called a nut driver, is used to tighten nuts in the same
way that a screwdriver tightens screws.
Computer Systems Servicing: Intermediate
Compressed air – used to blow away dust and debris from different computer
parts without touching the components.
Computers are easier to use and more dependable with each new generation of
hardware and operating system update, but that doesn’t mean they’re problem-
free. Here are the most popular tools for diagnosing your computer problems:
2. It is a type of hand tool that is used to loosen or tighten screws that have a
star-like depression on the top, a feature that is mainly found on laptop.
4. Used to hold screw, jumpers, fasteners and other small parts and prevents
them from getting mixed together.
5. A diagnostic tool that is used to test the integrity of circuits and the quality
of electricity in computer components.
LEARNING OUTCOME NO. 2
PREPARE HAND TOOLS
Contents:
Assessment Criteria
Conditions
1. Observation
2. Oral questioning
Learning Experiences
Learning Outcome 2
PREPARE HAND TOOLS
Answer Self Check 5.2-1 Safety -Safety Check your self by answering the self-
requirements in handling tools check and compare your answer to
the Answer key 5.2-1 You must
answer the question correctly before
proceeding to another activity
Information Sheet 5.2-1
(SAFETY -SAFETY REQUIREMENTS IN HANDLING TOOLS)
Learning Objectives:
After reading this INFORMATION SHEET, YOU MUST be able to:
A tool is a handheld device that aids in accomplishing a task. Tools range from
a traditional metal cutting part of a machine to an element of a computer
program that activates and controls a particular function.
How do you select the best tool for the job? First, know
and understand in detail the scope of work to be accomplished,
second, plan for the scope taking into account the sequence of tasks.
Once selected, use the tool for the purpose for which
it was designed. Not all tools Come with detailed instructions,
but there are those that do Spell out the safety “Do’s and
Don’ts” for your safety. If there are set-up/use options, operator
judgment must always be based on what is the safest way to use the tool.
Ensure that employees are properly trained in the safe use of hand tools.
Always provide training on how to choose the right tool for the job, how
to correctly use each tool, and how to identify when tools need repair.
Select the right tool for the job. Substitutes increase the chance of having
an accident.
Use tools designed to allow wrist to stay straight. Avoid using hand tools
with your wrist bent.
Use good quality tools.
Keep tools in good condition at all times.
Inspect tools for defects before use. Replace or repair defective tools.
Keep cutting tools sharp and cover sharp edges with a suitable covering
to protect the tool and to prevent injuries from unintended contact.
Replace cracked, splintered, or broken handles on files, hammers,
screwdrivers, or sledges.
Ensure that the handles of tools like hammers and axes fit tightly into
the head of the tool.
Replace worn jaws on wrenches, pipe tools and pliers.
Redress burred or mushroomed heads of striking tools.
Pull on a wrench or pliers. Never push unless you hold the tool with your
palm open.
Point sharp tools (e.g., saws, chisels, knives) laying on benches away
from aisles and handles should not extend over the edge of the bench
top.
Maintain tools carefully. Keep them clean and dry, and store them
properly after each use.
Carry tools in a sturdy tool box to and from the worksite.
Wear safety glasses or goggles, or a faceshield (with safety glasses or
goggles) and well-fitting gloves appropriate for the hazards to which you
may be exposed when doing various tasks.
Keep the work environment clean and tidy to avoid clutter which may
cause accidents.
Use a heavy belt or apron and hang tools pointed down at your sides, not
behind your back.
Keep the work space tidy. Store tools properly when not in use.
Do not use tools for jobs they are not intended to do. For example, do not
use a slot screw driver as a chisel, pry bar, wedge or punch, or wrenches
as hammers.
Do not apply excessive force or pressure on tools.
Do not cut towards yourself when using cutting tools.
Do not hold the stock in the palm of your hand when using a cutting tool
or a screwdriver. Always lay it on a workbench or in a vice.
Do not wear bulky gloves to operate hand tools.
Do not throw tools. Hand them, handle first, directly to other workers.
Do not carry tools in a way that interferes with using both hands on a
ladder, while climbing on a structure, or when doing any hazardous
work. If working on a ladder or scaffold, tools should be raised and
lowered using a bucket and hand line.
Do not carry a sharp tool in your pocket.
Do not use tools during electrical work unless they are designed for
electrical work (e.g., properly insulated).
Do not leave tools lying around on elevated structures such as a platform
or scaffold as they may be bumped and fall.
Self-Check: 5.2-1
(SAFETY -SAFETY REQUIREMENTS IN HANDLING TOOLS)
Contents:
Assessment Criteria
Conditions
3. Observation
4. Oral questioning
Learning Experiences
Learning Outcome 3
USE APPROPRIATE HAND TOOLS AND TEST EQUIPMENT
Answer Self Check 5.3-1 Safety Check your self by answering the self-
requirements of tools check and compare your answer to
the Answer key 5.3-1 You must
answer the question correctly before
proceeding to another activity
Read Information Sheet No. 5.3-2 on Read and understand the Information
Proper used of tools Sheet
Answer Self Check 5.3-2 Proper used Check your self by answering the self-
of tools check and compare your answer to
the Answer key 5.3-2 You must
answer the question correctly before
proceeding to another activity
Read Information Sheet No. 5.3-3 on Read and understand the Information
Creating report for malfunctions, Sheet
unplanned or unusual events
Information Sheet 5.3-1
(SAFETY REQUIREMENTS OF TOOLS)
Learning Objectives:
After reading this INFORMATION SHEET, YOU MUST be able to:
• Wrap the strap around your wrist and secure it using the snap
or Velcro. The metal on the back of the wrist strap must remain in
contact with your skin at all times.
A technician needs to be able to properly use each tool in the toolkit. This
topic covers many of the various hand tools used when repairing computers.
Screws
Match each screw with the proper screwdriver. Place the tip of the screwdriver
on the head of the screw. Turn the screwdriver clockwise to tighten the screw
and counterclockwise to loosen the screw. Screws can become stripped if you
over-tighten them with a screwdriver. A stripped screw, may get stuck in the
screw hole, or it may not tighten firmly. Discard stripped screws.
Use a flat head screwdriver when you are working with a slotted screw. Do not
use a flat head screwdriver to remove a Phillips head screw. Never use a
screwdriver as a pry bar. If you cannot remove a component, check to see if
there is a clip or latch that is securing the component in place.
Use a Phillips head screwdriver with crosshead screws. Do not use this
type of screwdriver to puncture anything. This will damage the head of the
screwdriver.
Hex driver
Use a hex driver to loosen and tighten bolts that have a hexagonal (six-sided)
head. Hex bolts should not be over-tightened because the threads of the bolts
can be stripped. Do not use a hex driver that is too large for the bolt that you
are using.
The part retriever, needle-nose pliers, and tweezers can be used to place and
retrieve parts that may be hard to reach with your fingers. Do not scratch or
hit any components when using these tools. Caution: Pencils should
not be used inside the computer to change the setting of switches or to pry off
jumpers. The pencil lead can act as a conductor and may damage the
computer components.
Clean computer cases and the outside of monitors with a mild cleaning
solution on a damp, lint-free cloth. Mix one drop of dishwashing liquid with
four ounces of water to create the cleaning solution. If any water drips inside
the case, allow enough time for the liquid to dry before powering on the
computer.
LCD Screens
Do not use ammoniated glass cleaners or any other solution on an LCD screen,
unless the cleaner is specifically designed for the purpose. Harsh chemicals will
damage the coating on the screen. There is no glass protecting these screens,
so be gentle when cleaning them and do not press firmly on the screen.
CRT Screens
To clean the screens of CRT monitors, dampen a soft, clean, lint-free cloth with
distilled water and wipe the screen from top to bottom. Then use a soft, dry
cloth to wipe the screen and remove any streaking after you have cleaned the
monitor. Clean dusty components with a can of compressed air. Compressed
air does not cause electrostatic buildup on components. Make sure that you
are in a well-ventilated area before blowing the dust out of the computer. A
best practice is to wear a dust mask to make sure that you do not breathe in
the dust particles. Blow out the dust using short bursts from the can. Never tip
the can or use the compressedair can upside down. Donot allow the fan
lades to spin from the force of the compressed air. Hold the fan in place. Fan
motors can be ruined from spinning when the motor is not turned on.
Component Contacts
Clean the contacts on components with isopropyl alcohol. Donot use rubbing
alcohol. Rubbing alcohol contains impurities that can damage contacts. Make
sure that the contacts do not collect any lint from the cloth or cotton swab.
Blow any lint off the contacts with compressed air before reinstallation.
Keyboard
Eye Protection
Protective eye wear must be worn in the laboratory at all times.
Face shields may be required if there is a potential for splashes, sprays, or
aerosols.
Gloves
Gloves must be worn by all personnel engaged in activities that may involve
skin contact with potentially infectious fluids or tissues. Gloves are also
required for laboratory workers with dermatitis or other lesions on the hands
who may have direct or indirect contact with potentially infectious materials.
Hand washing with soap and water must be a routine practice immediately
after direct contact with potentially infectious materials and on completion of
work, even when gloves are worn. Gloves should be removed before touching
common equipment (phone, computer, scintillation counters) to prevent
contamination.
Self-Check: 5.3-1
(SAFETY REQUIREMENTS OF TOOLS)
1. What is the importance of knowing and mastering the different tools before
using it?
Learning Objectives:
After reading this INFORMATION SHEET, YOU MUST be able to
Using tools properly helps prevent accidents and damage to equipment and
people. This section describes and covers the proper use of a variety of
hardware, software, and organizational tools specific to working with
computers and peripherals.
When static electricity builds up in your body, the connection made by the
wrist strap to the equipment, or ground, channels the electricity through the
wire that connects the strap.
1. Wrap the strap around your wrist and secure it using the snap or
Velcro. The metal on the back of the wrist strap must remain in
contact with your skin at all times.
2. Snap the connector at the end of the wire to the wrist strap, and
connect the other end either to the equipment or to the same
grounding point that the antistatic mat is connected to. The metal
skeleton of the case is a good place to connect the wire.
When connecting the wire to equipment that you are working on, choose an
unpainted metal surface. A painted surface does not conduct the electricity as
well as unpainted metal.
Screws
Match each screw with the proper screwdriver. Place the tip of the
screwdriver on the head of the screw.
Turn the screwdriver clockwise to tighten the screw and counter-
clockwise to loosen the screw.
Use a flat head screwdriver when you are working with a slotted screw.
Use a Phillips head screwdriver with crosshead screws. Do not use this
type of screwdriver to puncture anything. This will damage the head of
the screwdriver.
Hex driver
Use a hex driver to loosen and tighten bolts that have a hexagonal (six-
sided) head.
Use a hex driver to loosen and tighten bolts that have a hexagonal (six-
sided) head. Hex bolts should not be over-tightened because the threads
of the bolts can be stripped. Do not use a hex driver that is too large for
the bolt that you are using.
The part retriever, needle-nose pliers, and tweezers can be used to place
and retrieve parts that may be hard to reach with your fingers. Do not
scratch or hit any components when using these tools.
CAUTION: Pencils should not be used inside the computer to change the
setting of switches or to pry off jumpers. The pencil lead can act as a conductor
and may damage the computer components.
CAUTION: When compressed air is used to clean inside the computer, the air
should be blown around the components with a minimum distance of four
inches from the nozzle. The power supply and the fan should be cleaned from
the back of the case.
CAUTION: When compressed air is used to clean inside the computer, the air
should be blown around the components with a minimum distance of four
inches from the nozzle. The power supply and the fan should be cleaned from
the back of the case.
CAUTION: Before cleaning any device, turn it off and unplug the device from
the power source.
Clean computer cases and the outside of monitors with a mild cleaning
solution on a damp, lint-free cloth. Mix one drop of dishwashing liquid with
four ounces of water to create the cleaning solution. If any water drips inside
the case, allow enough time for the liquid to dry before powering on the
computer.
LCD Screens
Do not use ammoniated glass cleaners or any other solution on an LCD screen,
unless the cleaner is specifically designed for the purpose. Harsh chemicals will
damage the coating on the screen. There is no glass protecting these screens,
so be gentle when cleaning them and do not press firmly on the screen.
CRT Screens
Blow out the dust using short bursts from the can. Never tip the can or
use the compressed air can upside down. Do not allow the fan blades to
spin from the force of the compressed air. Hold the fan in place. Fan
motors can be ruined from spinning when the motor is not turned on.
Component Contacts
Mouse
1. What tool is used to equalize the electrical charge between you and the
equipment?
3. When working around electronic devices, why is it that the tools you are
using must have not been magnetized?
4. What are the tools used to place and retrieve parts that may be hard to
reach with your fingers?
1. Maintenance of tools
2. Storage of Tools
Assessment Criteria
Conditions
1. Observation
2. Oral questioning
Learning Experiences
Learning Outcome 4
MAINTAIN HAND TOOLS
Answer Self Check 5.4-1 Maintenance Check your self by answering the self-
of tools check and compare your answer to
the Answer key 5.4-1 You must
answer the question correctly before
proceeding to another activity
Read Information Sheet No. 5.4-2 on Read and understand the Information
Storage of Tools Sheet
Answer Self Check 5.4-2 Check your self by answering the self-
check and compare your answer to
the Answer key 5.4-2 You must
answer the question correctly before
proceeding to another activity
Information Sheet 5.4-1
(Maintenance of Tools)
Learning Objectives:
After reading this INFORMATION SHEET, YOU MUST be able to:
Make it a habit to clean tools after each use before you return them to storage.
Wipe them down with a rag or old towel and be sure they are free of dust,
grease and debris before you put them into their proper places. This is also an
opportunity to look for any damage or defects. Check your tools' handles for
splinters, breaks and cracks. Also, make sure that metal parts show no signs
of corrosion or rust. Repair or replace any tools that show signs of damage.
Cold chisels, log-splitting wedges and other striking tools can be very
dangerous if they are not maintained properly. Because these types of tools are
used for repeated striking, the surface of the metal head eventually mushrooms
out and spreads to form a lip or ridge around the edge. With continued use,
there is more spreading and the metal lip may continue to thin, split or curl
until it finally breaks. If the metal head separates from the handle while in use,
this could result in a dangerous projectile. To prevent this hazard, just grind off
the metal edges with a powered grinder on a regular basis.
Safety Alerts!
Don’t use tools that need repair or replacement. Broken tools can cause
injury.
Don’t use tools inappropriately; you risk injury to yourself, others and
damage to the tools.
Safety Alert!
You should wear heavy gloves when cleaning or removing rust from tools
that can cut. Wear safety goggles when using a wire brush to remove rust.
The degree of detail to include regarding tools and equipment maintenance will
depend on the kinds of tools/equipment used. Some construction equipment
may have very specific inspection and maintenance requirements. Electronic
equipment may have different maintenance requirements. Hand tools may
require only basic maintenance. Powertools should be maintained
in good working order. This may be limited to ensuring that blades/ bits are
replaced when needed and those guards or other safety devices are operable
and any damaged electrical cords/plugs are repaired or replaced.
Damaged or defective equipment/tools should be tagged and removed
from service. Most manufacturers can provide maintenance schedules for their
equipment. Large companies typically have a comprehensive maintenance
program due to the capital investment and/or leasing agreements. Smaller
companies may lease equipment and maintenance services may be included in
the leasing agreement. General requirements for tools and equipment
maintenance include:
• Obtaining a copy of the maintenance schedule recommended by
the manufacturer
• Ensuring that maintenance is performed as required
• Ensuring that the person(s) performing the maintenance are
competent (e.g. licensed mechanic)
• Retaining records of maintenance/service conducted
• Specifying who is responsible for overseeing equipment
maintenance and where the records are kept
• Set up a system for removal and tagging of damaged or
defective tools and equipment
Self-Check: 5.4-1
(Maintenance of Tools)
Learning Objectives:
After reading this INFORMATION SHEET, YOU MUST be able to:
Identify the different tools and equipment that is used for storing
purposes
Select appropriate storage for specific tools and equipment
To ensure that tools and equipment remain in good condition and last for a
long time, store them properly. Properly stored tools and equipment will be
easy to find when needed and are less likely to be lost.
Good practices include:
• Parts shouldbeproperlystoredandlabeled.
• Tools should be properly placed on the board, and labeled. Consider
drawing the shapes of the tools on the board so that they always get put
back in the same position.
• Use bins for storing small parts.
• Consider making an individual (or individuals) responsible for the good
maintenance of tools and parts.
Benefits:
Tools and parts are kept in good condition and are easy
to find
Costs are reduced.
Productivity is increased because time is not wasted looking for tools,
parts and equipment.
Workshop staff develop a sense of responsibility and pride in their
work.
Storage container
shelving unit, or a combination of all of these can be used to keep your tools
protected and in peak condition.
Ideally, your storage units should be kept somewhere with minimal exposure
to moisture and temperature changes. Remember to keep tools in their
respective places or hung on designated hangers when a job has been
completed.
Self-Check: 5.4-2
(Storage of Tools)
1. What are the different storage tools that are used in storing different tools
and materials?
2. Why is it that the tools and equipment must be properly
stored?