Module 4: Hand Tools & Power Tools Fundamentals
- Identify common hand tools and their correct uses
- Describe safe operating practices for common power tools
- Explain basic tool maintenance and storage practices
Common hand tools on a construction site include hammers and chisels for shaping and demolition, hand saws for cutting wood, trowels for spreading mortar and concrete, and wrenches and pliers for fastening and gripping, each designed for a specific task, and using the wrong tool for a job often damages the material or the tool itself. Power tools such as circular saws, angle grinders, and power drills multiply productivity but carry higher injury risk, so safe use always includes wearing appropriate PPE, keeping guards in place, disconnecting power before changing blades or bits, and never forcing a tool beyond its intended use. Basic maintenance, cleaning tools after use, keeping cutting edges sharp, storing tools dry to prevent rust, and regularly checking power cords and batteries for damage, extends a tool's working life and prevents equipment failure from becoming a safety hazard. A well-organized, well-maintained toolkit is often what separates a reliable tradesperson from an unreliable one in the eyes of clients and contractors.
1. A trowel is a hand tool primarily used for:
2. Before changing a blade or bit on a power tool, you should always:
3. Regular tool maintenance, such as keeping tools dry and checking cords for damage, primarily helps to: