DRILLING • MINING • QUARRYING • CIVIL INFRASTRUCTURE

RIISAM203D - Use hand and power tools

LEARNER GUIDE

Learner Name:

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Copyright

© SkillsDMC. All rights reserved

SkillsDMC (Resources and Infrastructure Industry Skills Council Ltd)

Tower 1, Level 1, Suite 2, 475 Victoria Avenue, Chatswood, NSW 2067

Telephone: +61 (02) 9324 8600

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Email: resources@skillsdmc.com.au

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Published by: SkillsDMC (Resources and Infrastructure Industry Skills Council Ltd)

Tower 1, Level 1, Suite 2, 475 Victoria Avenue, Chatswood, NSW 2067 AUSTRALIA

First published: 2015

Disclaimer:

SkillsDMC is the owner of all copyright and other intellectual property rights in the products and any modifications made by SkillsDMC to the materials (parent document issued to you at point of sale and as reflected in the invoice). You acknowledge that, apart from the limited licence granted under these Terms of Sale, you have no right, title or interest (including intellectual property rights) in the products. You will do anything reasonably required to give effect to SkillsDMC’s ownership of the products (parent document).

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ContentsUnit of Competency 4

Unit Descriptor 6

Topics 6

Recognition of Prior Learning 6

Learning activities 7

Introduction 8

Power tools 11

General rules of use 14

Electrical safety using power tools 15

Using hand tools 22

Knowledge questions 25

Practical activities 28

Answers to Learning activities 30

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Unit of Competency

RIISAM203D Use hand and power tools

Application This unit describes a participant’s skills and knowledge required to use hand and power tools in the Resources and Infrastructure Industry.

This unit is appropriate for those working in operational roles.

No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.

Element Performance Criteria

Elements describe the essential outcomes of a unit of competency

Performance Criteria describe the required performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.

1. Plan and prepare to use hand and power tools

1.1. Access, interpret and apply hand and power tools documentation to ensure the work activity is compliant

1.2. Obtain, read, interpret, clarify and confirm work requirements

1.3. Identify and address potential risks, hazards and environmental issues, and implement control measures

1.4. Select and wear personal protective equipment appropriate for work activity

1.5. Obtain and interpret emergency procedures, and be prepared for fire/accident/emergency

2. Select and use hand tools 2.1. Select hand tools appropriate for the work activity

2.2. Check tools for serviceability and safety, and report faults

2.3. Clamp or fix materials in position

2.4. Use hand tools safely and effectively according to their intended use

2.5. Locate hand tools safely when not in immediate use

3. Select and use power tools 3.1. Select power tools and equipment appropriate for the work activity

3.2. Inspect tools for serviceability and safety, and report faults

3.3. Visually check power leads/hoses for serviceability/safety and report faults

3.4. Clear route for safe placement and connection of leads/hoses

3.5. Clamp or fix material in position for power tool application where applicable

3.6. Use power tools safely and effectively in application processes

3.7. Locate power tools safely when not in immediate use

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4. Conduct housekeeping activities

4.1. Clear work area and dispose of or recycle materials

4.2. Clean and maintain condition of equipment, ensure suitability for use, and address/report issues

4.3. Process written records and reports

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Unit DescriptorThis unit covers the use of hand and power tools in resources and infrastructure industries. It includes planning and preparing for work, selecting and using hand tools and power tools, and cleaning up.

TopicsThe main topics covered in this Learning Guide are:

• Using power tools properly

• Avoiding injury

• Planning and preparing for power tool use

• Using a power tool

• General rules of use

• Using air powered tools

• Electrical safety using power tools

• Selecting and using a hand tool

• Personal protection

• Environmental concerns

Recognition of Prior LearningIf you think you can satisfactorily complete the assessment for this section, check your knowledge and skills as follows:

I can:

• identify and explain the characteristics of different hand and power tools and how to use them

• identify and explain the methods and procedures that I must follow when using hand and power tools in relation to electrical and general safety

• follow best practice methods when using hand and power tools

• select the appropriate tool for the needs of the job

• identify and explain the maintenance requirements of tools

• identify and explain the specific tools to use for specific tasks

• explain the importance of using tools in a safe manner

• identify and explain what types of personal protective equipment I should use in relation to the type of work I am doing

• identify and explain environmental concerns linked to using tools, including what I can do to prevent these occurring

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Learning Activities

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Learning activitiesAs you work through this Learning Guide you will complete the following activities:

• Questions about the difference between power and hand tools including safety issues

• How to plan and prepare for power tool usage

• General principles of tool use

• Demonstrate how to use a power tool

• Question about electrical safety

• Learn and demonstrate how to use a hand tool

• Questions about personal protective equipment

• Questions about environmental issues

What workplace experience do I need?

If you are employed in the industry, complete the unit activities using your workplace as an example.

If you are not employed in the industry, your trainer can assist you to demonstrate the application of this unit of competency in a number of ways:

• you will undertake a work placement so you can experience a real work situation

• you can work through case studies or other examples, provided by your trainer

• you can visit as many worksites as possible to further assist with your assessment

How will I be assessed for this unit?

Assessment for this unit will comprise of both practical and theory components. Details of the methods, location and times of these assessments will be provided to you by your assessor.

Throughout this Learner Guide you will see the term trainer. This is the person who will be guiding you through this unit of competency. It could be a workplace supervisor, mentor, trainer, instructor or tutor.

When the term assessor is used it refers to the person who will make the final judgement of your competency in this unit. Sometimes the trainer and assessor will be the same person. In some cases they will differ.

The assessor will collect a range of evidence which shows how you meet the outcomes of the unit of competency.

There is a section at the end of this Learner Guide that gives you the chance to test your own understanding of the content of this Unit before being assessed formally by your assessor. The Learning Activities and the Check your Understanding section of this Learner Guide are not formal assessments for this Unit.

What resources will I need to complete this unit?

To complete this unit, certain resources are required. These resources are easily found in a workplace. If you are not in a workplace, your trainer will make sure you can obtain the required resources, and experience a real workplace environment.

Here is a suggested list of resources. Your trainer may also add any other relevant resources.

• any hand and power tools that are relevant to the resources and infrastructure industries

• examples of materials that hand and power tools are used to work on

• examples of resources and infrastructure documentation that provides instructions on hand and power tools use

• instruction or user manuals related to tools

• examples of personal protective equipment worn for hand and power tools use

• examples of resources and infrastructure workplace written documentation to be completed when operating hand and power tools

• examples of any faulty hand and power tools that should not be used

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IntroductionHand and power tools are a common part of our everyday lives and are used in many industries.

A power tool is a tool with a motor that reduces the work an operator has to do. This makes it possible for the operator to do things that are difficult or impossible to do by hand. Common power tools include drills, various types of saws, and grinders. All of these tools have manual equivalents called hand tools. Examples of these are almost endless, from tools like the hammer to tools with specific uses like callipers.

Further examples of hand tools are:

• spanner

• wrenches

• sockets

• pliers

• screwdrivers

• punches

• hacksaws

• files

Power tools provide a quick and easy way to complete tasks when compared to their manual versions. For example, an electrical saw can do the same work as a manual saw but quicker, with less effort and greater accuracy.

Further examples of power tools are:

• bandsaw

• jigsaw

• cordless drill

• impact wrench

• angle-grinder

• nail gun

• electric sander

• biscuit (plate) joiner

Personal protection

You must always wear appropriate safety equipment when working with hand or power tools. This includes but is not limited to the following:

Eye protection and dust masks should be worn when working with metal, wood or other materials which may create filings, dust or other debris which could damage eyes or enter your mouth or nose.

Earplugs should always be worn. Loud continuous noises can cause permanent damage to your hearing.

Always wear steel capped work boots to protect your feet. Do not wear sandals, open-toed or canvas shoes when working with tools. If you drop something on your foot it could cause serious injury.

Avoid loose-fitting clothes that might become tangled in a power tool. Remove rings and other jewellery.

Do not operate power tools when you are ill, taking strong medications, fatigued or have had alcoholic drinks. Do not smoke while working with tools.

Environmental concerns

There are environmental issues you will need to think about depending on the type of work you are doing and the tools you are using.

You must be aware of the environmental protection requirements or specifications and follow all environmental regulations. Not taking these into account could have serious consequences.

Here are some points to be aware of when using power tools:

• If you are working in an outdoor location and your tools produce sparks, first check that it is safe to do so. Make sure there are no easily flammable materials nearby. If the conditions are not right, a fire could result.

• Correctly dispose of scraps from materials you have been working on. Look to recycle as much as possible and follow your workplace policies and procedures.

• Use tools in such a way that they create the least disturbance through noise.

• Cordless power tools have rechargeable batteries. Make sure you recycle batteries when finished and do not put them in the rubbish bin.

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LEARNING ACTIVITY 11.1. Personal protective equipment is an essential part of safety when working with hand and power

tools. Your trainer will provide a range of personal protective equipment. You should discuss with them what type of tools and conditions you would use with the different types of safety equipment and list of them in the space provided, also indicating the reason for using them.

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Only a few environmental concerns related to power tool use are listed. Now you will need to do some further investigation of environmental issues that are connected with your area of work.

1.2. Find out all the environmental issues that are present in the workplace that are related to the use of power tools. List them in the space provided and discuss them with your trainer outlining the steps that are taken to control or prevent them.

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Power toolsFailing to properly use and maintain electric powered tools can result in cuts, punctures, pinches, amputations, and electrocution. The high power output of power tools just requires one small slip to cause an injury for life.

Everyone who uses power tools must learn to recognise the hazards associated with the different types of tools and the safety precautions necessary to prevent those hazards. Following the guiding principles outlined in this Learning Guide, combined with your own good judgment, will help keep you safe.

Avoiding injury

Most injuries from tools can be prevented. When using hand tools it is your own strength that will cause you an injury. For example when using a hammer you may hit yourself on the thumb when holding a nail or you could cut yourself when using a saw. How hard you hit yourself or how quick you are sawing will determine the extent of the injury. Your natural reaction will be to stop the tool immediately so you do not hurt yourself any further.

Power tools work at a much quicker rate, do not slow down immediately and work with greater force. The injuries resulting from power tools can occur a lot quicker and be much worse. For example, you may cut into a finger when using a hand saw. There is a good chance, if you are careless, you may cut all your fingers off when using an electric saw.

The golden rule that applies to all tools: Always keep safety in mind. You can never, ever be too careful.

The five following rules describe how to be safe when operating power tools to minimise the chances of accidents occurring.

1. Respect electricity

2. Maintain a safe work area

3. Develop safe work habits

4. Care for tools properly

5. Read the instruction manuals

It takes a little time and patience to use a power tool properly but after a short while these actions will become habit and part of your normal work routine, making life a lot safer.

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Planning and preparing to use power tools

By doing some planning and preparation you can avoid injury and do a safe and efficient job. You should have a checklist that you go through before you pick up a power tool. The following checklist provides you with points you must keep in mind before using a power tool.

Power tool check list ü1. Make sure the cord is in good condition and not worn

2. All guards must be in good working order and accessories fitted properly

3. Before plugging in a power tool always make sure it is in the off position

4. Before usage make sure that you are wearing the appropriate protective gear such as safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection and a face mask to protect against any projectiles, noise and dust

5. Do not have loose clothing, jewellery or long hair that could get caught in the moving parts of a power tool

6. Make sure others in the area are at a safe distance and wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment

7. Extension cords should be checked for any damage to their outer insulating jacket

8. Make sure the plug is securely attached and that all pins are secure

9. Know the application, limitation, and potential hazards of the tool. Operate according to the manufacturer's instructions

10. Make sure the work area is free of clutter, well-lit and you have enough room to freely move

11. Think about the task at hand and properly prepare by taking the time to understand plans, specifications and procedures to follow

12. Be sure that any materials you are working on are properly secured to assist with accuracy and avoid accidental movement of the materials that could cause injury

13. Match the tool for the job and only use accessories designed for that power tool and the job application

14. Verify that the tool has an electrical test label to indicate it has successfully passed inspection and tests for electrical safety according to manufacturer’s instructions

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Using a power tool

Never use a tool unless you are trained to do so.

Inspect it before each use and replace or repair parts that are worn or damaged. If you have to change a blade, drill bit or an accessory, first unplug the tool from the socket so there is no accidental operation.

If service is needed, take it to someone who is qualified. Never attempt to service electrical equipment yourself.

Before using the tool check the screws, nuts, bolts and movable parts to make sure they are tightened. Make sure the cord will not become caught or tangled or be a hazard to others in the area. The cord should be flexible, but not easy to knot. Clean the cord regularly and inspect the connections. Always place the tool in a safe position when not in use.

You must be aware of any activity or people that are around you. If something occurs that you don’t expect, it may make you lurch or jump. This could cause you to decrease your steady hold on the power tool and create an unexpected shift in it or your position. You should also make sure you never surprise others who are using power tools.

Use the correct tools for the job. Do not use a tool or attachment for something it was not designed to do.

Select the correct bit, cutter or grinding wheel for the material you are working with. This saves time, improves the quality of work and reduces the risk of an accident.

Power tools can often create dust so an area of good ventilation is required when working. Always cut away from your body and never place your hands in front of a blade or near moving parts.

Your workplace will have a set of policies and procedures on the safe use of power tools. You must read these and conduct yourself in line with workplace requirements.

Don’t rush a job when using a power tool. A methodical and careful approach is the safest way to go. When you rush to get a job done quickly it places your safety at risk.

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General rules of useSpend some time reading the manual and getting to know about a power tool. It offers warnings, advice and instructions to safely use the power tool and maintain its working condition.

The best way to use a tool is to make sure you have complete control over it all the times and that your actions are carefully thought out. There are some general rules that apply to all power tools.

Rules of use

It is very important that you use the correct tool for the job. When using a tool for a job it is not designed for, you run the risk of damaging the tool or hurting yourself. An example of this is using a drill bit for the wrong material – this could cause the tool to kick back and create a loss of control.

You also risk loss of control when the cutting blade or surface is dull. If your tool is sharp, it will easily do the work for you and you won’t have to over exert force which increases the likelihood of losing control.

You should never work in conditions with bad light. Only work in conditions where the light is sufficient to carry out a task safely. It must be bright enough to see fine details easily.

When operating a tool you must be balanced and steady. Don’t over reach to get the job done quicker. The best way to control a tool is by using both hands. You must also take extra care when working on a ladder.

In addition, you should ensure that the material you are working on with hand and power tools is secure or fixed in place so that it behaves in the way that you intend it to while working.

If the material shifts while you are working, it becomes more likely that you could injure yourself or someone around you, you may cause damage to the tool, or you could damage or destroy the material you are working on.

How you secure the material will depend on the characteristics of the material and the type of work you are doing, but generally, materials can be fixed or secured through the use of tools such as clamps and vices, or, depending on the job, by more permanent methods such as tack welds, glue or screws.

Do not modify a power tool in any way or override any safety guard. They are there for a reason and should not be tampered with. If a safety guard is broken or deficient you should not use it because it will cause you problems. Report the defect to your supervisor immediately and tag the tool as unsafe.

Air powered tools

Some power tools use compressed air to drive them and are referred to as pneumatic, for example a pneumatic drill. Pneumatic tools require a hose to be connected from an air compressor pump to the power tool.

The same general rules on use and safety precautions for power tools also apply to air powered tools.

An air hose can be a hazard in the same way as an electrical lead. You should check it regularly for any faults or cracks. When it is in use make sure that it doesn’t get in the way and become a tripping hazard for yourself and others.

Examples of air powered tools include:

• jack hammers

• rock drills

• saws

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Electrical safety using power toolsSometimes it is the things you can’t see that cause the greatest hazard. This is especially true of electricity.

Water and moisture

Water and moisture is an excellent conductor of electricity and increases the chances of an electrical short or possible electrical shock. Keep the work area dry; do not operate power tools in wet or damp conditions. It can cause the equipment to fail and become hazardous.

Electrical lead

Using a power tool that requires a lead for an electrical supply increases the risk of an incident. Always make sure you select a lead that is in good working order by visually checking it for any damage. It should not be too short or it will restrict your movement of the tool, and not too long or you could become tangled in it while working and trip over or cut through it. Make sure the plug is securely attached and that all pins are secure.

Faulty equipment

Electricity wants to take the path of least resistance. This means that if there is any leakage of electricity from a fault in a power tool then the operator can become a passage for the electricity and suffer an electrical shock. Cordless power tools have eliminated some problems, although battery chargers also should only be used in dry locations.

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LEARNING ACTIVITY 22.1. Describe the difference and advantage of using power tools over hand tools.

2.2. Why are power tools considered more dangerous than hand tools?

2.3. Why are power tools considered more dangerous than hand tools?

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2.4. You should always read the instruction manuals before operating a power tool. What are the other four rules you should follow when using a power tool? List them.

1.

2.

3.

4.

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2.5. Demonstrate that you can competently prepare for the operation of a power tool. Your trainer will provide a power tool and use the following checklist to see whether your preparation covers the points outlined.

Did the candidate check the following? ü1. The cord is in good condition and not worn

2. All guards are in good working order and accessories are fitted properly

3. The tool is in the off position before being plugged in

4. You are wearing the appropriate protective gear such as safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection and a face mask to protect against any projectiles, noise and dust

5. No loose clothing, jewellery or long hair that could get caught in a blade or something

6. Others in the area are at a safe distance and wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment

7. Is there damage to the outer insulating jacket of extension cords

8. The plug is securely attached and that all pins are secure

9. Understand the application, limitation, and potential hazards of the tool

10. Work area is free of clutter, well-lit and with enough room to freely move

11. Understand the task at hand and properly prepare by taking the time to understand plans, specifications and procedures to follow

12. Materials are properly secure to assist with accuracy and avoid accidental movement that could cause injury

13. The tool matches the job and only uses accessories designed for that power tool and the job application

14. The tool has an electrical test label to indicate it has successfully passed inspection and tests for electrical safety according to manufacturer’s instructions

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Later you will have the opportunity to use a power tool. First you must demonstrate that you understand some of the principles of using them by answering the following questions.

2.6. Why is it very important to use the correct tool for the job you are undertaking?

2.7. Where should you place your hands in relation to a moving part or blade of a power tool?

2.8. Why should you never rush a job to get it finished quickly?

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There are many types of electrical and air tools and different uses. The only way to learn how to use power tools is to have an experienced operator demonstrate them. The type of work that power tools are used for are far too varied to individually cover in this Learning Guide.

2.9. Your trainer will provide you with access to a range of power tools and demonstrate how to use them. You should ask any questions to clarify anything you don’t understand, keeping in mind that safety comes first.

Once your trainer has shown you how to use a tool they will assign you a task to demonstrate that you can competently use it. Your trainer will use the following checklist to record areas that you need to strengthen and focus on for assessment.

Skill Excellent Good FairNeeds

improvement

Prepares to use the power tool by doing the appropriate checks and taking the correct precautions – refer to Learning activity 2

Uses suitable personal protective equipment

Remains balanced, in control and steady when operating the equipment

Uses the correct tool for the job

Asks for assistance if unsure of any operations

Didn’t leave the tool unattended

Stores tool in a designated area that is safe, clean and dry

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Respecting electricity and understanding the damage and injury it can cause is the first step in electrical safety with power tools. Using a power tool that requires a lead for an electrical supply increases the risk of an incident.

2.10. What are the safety issues that are involved with electricity when using a power tool? List them in the space provided and demonstrate/explain to your assessor how you would prevent them from happening.

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Using hand toolsHand tools can also cause injury if not used correctly. Because power tools operate at such high speed they are associated with a greater degree and severity of injury than hand tools. Many of the same safety tips apply to the use of hand tools as power tools except when electricity is involved.

You should never place your hands in front of the ‘action’ part of a hand tool. Do not leave tools in an unstable or unsuitable position when they are not in use. Keep them in good working order and the blades sharp and handles in good condition. Wear the appropriate personal protective equipment for safety.

Power tools do not completely do away with the need for hand tools. Often hand tools like clamps, vices, spanners, bolt cutters, measuring tapes, hammers, picks and wire brushes must be used in conjunction with power tools to complete the job.

As you become more experienced, you may also find that some jobs can be completed more effectively or efficiently with hand tools rather than power tools. Just because a power tool is available, it may not always be the best option for completing a task.

Before using any hand tools you must receive instruction on the proper and safe way to use them. Just like power tools, you must use hand tools for the job they are designed for. If you do not, it can cause injury and decrease efficiency and the overall quality of the result. When you have finished working with hand tools you must store them in a designated area that is safe, clean and dry.

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LEARNING ACTIVITY 3Examples of hand tools are almost endless and are too varied to cover here. The best way to learn how to use hand tools is to have an experienced operator demonstrate them.

3.1. Your trainer will provide you with access to a range of hand tools and demonstrate how to use them. You should ask any questions to clarify anything you don’t understand, keeping in mind that safety comes first. Once your trainer has shown you how to use a tool they will assign you a task to demonstrate that you can competently use them. Your trainer will use the following checklist to record areas that you will need to strengthen and focus on for assessment.

Skill Excellent Good FairNeeds

improvement

Prepares to use the power tool by doing the appropriate checks and taking the correct precautions – refer to Learning activity 2

Uses suitable personal protective equipment

Remains balanced, in control and steady when operating the equipment

Uses the correct tool for the job

Asks for assistance if unsure of any operations

Didn’t leave the tool unattended

Stores tool in a designated area that is safe, clean and dry

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Check your understandingOnce the Learning Activities from all sections have been completed, the following Knowledge questions and Practical activities are provided for you to check your understanding of this unit prior to undertaking the assessment.

Once these questions and activities are completed, contact your Trainer / Supervisor to discuss the completion of your assessment.

Che

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stan

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Knowledge questionsAnswer the following questions in the space provided.

1. What is the difference between a hand tool and a power tool?

2. What is the golden rule to follow when using any tool?

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3. What are the five rules you should follow when using power tools?

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

4. In the following list, circle all the hand tools and place a tick next to all the power tools.

• hammer

• nail gun

• wire cutters

• spanner

• cordless drill

• hand saw

• spade

• impact wrench

• angle-grinder

• chisel

• jigsaw

• crow bar

• bolt cutters

• bandsaw

• electric sander

• axe

• biscuit machine

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5. Why should you never use power tools in a moist or wet environment?

6. What are the key points to protect your safety concerning a power lead?

7. List three different types of power tools or hand tools.

Next to each write down the personal protective equipment that you should have when using each one and the reason for using it.

1.

2.

3.

8. What are the environmental concerns that are related to the use of tools that are specific to your type of work? List them in the space provided.

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Practical activities1. Demonstrate to your assessor that you can do the correct checks before using a power tool.

Your assessor will use the following checklist to determine whether you have completed the task correctly.

Power tool check list ü1. Make sure the cord is in good condition and not worn

2. All guards must be in good working order and accessories fitted properly

3. Before plugging in a power tool always make sure it is in the off position

4. Before usage make sure that you are wearing the appropriate protective gear such as safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection and a face mask to protect against any projectiles, noise and dust

5. Do not have loose clothing, jewellery or long hair that could get caught in the moving parts of a power tool

6. Make sure others in the area are at a safe distance and wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment

7. Extension cords should be checked for any damage to their outer insulating jacket

8. Make sure the plug is securely attached and that all pins are secure

9. Know the application, limitation, and potential hazards of the tool. Operate according to the manufacturer's instructions

10. Make sure the work area is free of clutter, well-lit and you have enough room to freely move

11. Think about the task at hand and properly prepare by taking the time to understand plans, specifications and procedures to follow

12. Be sure that any materials you are working on are properly secured to assist with accuracy and avoid accidental movement of the materials that could cause injury

13. Match the tool for the job and only use accessories designed for that power tool and the job application

14. Verify that the tool has an electrical test label to indicate it has successfully passed inspection and tests for electrical safety according to manufacturer’s instructions

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This activity involves you putting to use all the knowledge you have learnt about hand and power tools. Your assessor will provide you with access to a range of hand and power tools for you to demonstrate how to use them. Your assessor will use the following checklist to record if you carry out this Assessment activity competently.

Skill Excellent Good FairNeeds

improvement

Did the candidate?:

Prepares to use the power tool by doing the appropriate checks and taking the correct precautions – refer to Learning activity 2

Uses suitable personal protective equipment

Remains balanced, in control and steady when operating the equipment

Uses the correct tool for the job

Asks for assistance if unsure of any operations

Didn’t leave the tool unattended

Stores tool in a designated area that is safe, clean and dry

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Answers to Learning activities

Learning activity 1

1.1. Personal protective equipment is an essential part of safety when working with hand and power tools. Your trainer will provide a range of personal protective equipment. You should discuss with them what type of tools and conditions you would use with the different types of safety equipment and list of them in the space provided, also indicating the reason for using them.

Answer:Eye protection and dust masks should be worn when working with metal, wood or other materials which may create filings dust or other debris which could damage eyes or enter your mouth or nose.

Earplugs should always be worn. Loud continuous noises can cause permanent damage to your hearing.

Always wear steel capped work boots to protect your feet. Do not wear sandals, open-toed or canvas shoes when working with tools. If you dropped something on your foot it could cause serious injury.

Avoid loose-fitting clothes that might become tangled in a power tool. Remove rings and other jewellery.

Do not operate power tools when you are ill, taking strong medications, fatigued or have had alcoholic drinks. Do not smoke while working with tools.

1.2. Find out all the environmental issues that are present in the workplace that are related to the use of power tools. List them in the space provided and discuss them with your trainer outlining the steps that are taken to control or prevent them.

Answer:The answer will depend on the workplace chosen but answers may include issues such as:

- creating dust – use a special area with an air extractor

- creating fumes such as when using a spray gun – use a special booth with and air extractor

Learning activity 2

2.1. Describe the difference and advantage of using power tools over hand tools.

Answer:Power tools provide a quick, more accurate and easy way to complete tasks compared with hand tools.

2.2. Why are power tools considered more dangerous than hand tools?

Answer:Power tools work at a much quicker rate, do not slow down immediately and work with greater force.

2.3. What is the golden rule to keep in mind when using all tools?

Answer:Always keep safety in mind. You can never, ever be too careful.

2.4. You should always read the instruction manuals before operating a power tool. What are the other four rules you should follow when using a power tool? List them.

Answer:• respect electricity

• maintain a safe work area

• develop safe work habits

• care for tools properly

2.5. Demonstrate that you can competently prepare for the operation of a power tool. Your trainer will provide a power tool and use a checklist to check whether your preparation covers the points outlined.

Answer:There should be a tick in every box to show that the correct preparation has been completed to use a power tool properly.

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2.6. Why is it very important to use the correct tool for the job you are undertaking?

Answer:Using the correct tool saves time, improves the quality of work and reduces the risk of an accident.

2.7. Where should you place your hands in relation to a moving part or blade of a power tool?

Answer:Never place your hands in front of a blade or near moving parts.

2.8. Why should you never rush a job to get it finished quickly?

Answer:When you rush you put safety at risk.

2.9. Your trainer will provide you with access to a range of power tools and demonstrate how to use them. You should ask any questions to clarify anything you don’t understand, keeping in mind that safety comes first. Once your trainer has shown you how to use a tool they will assign you a task to demonstrate that you can competently use it. Your trainer will use a checklist to record areas that you need to strengthen and focus on for assessment.

Answer:If there are any ticks in the Needs Improvement column then more training is necessary.

2.10. What are the safety issues that are involved with electricity when using a power tool? List them in the space provided and demonstrate/explain to your assessor how you would prevent them from happening.

Answer:Safety issues involved with power tools are:

- water and moisture – the work area must be kept dry

- electrical leads – all leads should have a current electrical safety test label and should be visually checked to ensure good working order

- faulty equipment – never use faulty equipment

Learning activity 3

3.1. Your trainer will provide you with access to a range of hand tools and demonstrate how to use them. You should ask any questions to clarify anything you don’t understand, keeping in mind that safety comes first. Once your trainer has shown you how to use a tool they will assign you a task to demonstrate that you can competently use them. Your trainer will use a checklist to record areas that you will need to strengthen and focus on for assessment.

Answer:If there are any ticks in the ‘Needs improvement’ column then more training is necessary.

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