When in doubt, consult the appropriate instruc-
stowage. If a tool becomes worn, damaged, or
tion or ask someone who knows.
broken, report it to the work center supervisor.
Always clean, inspect, and account for all tools
3. Always make sure that everyone is clear
before starting or operating mechanical equip-
after you complete a job. Return all tools to their
ment.
proper stowage place.
4. Cut off the source of power before trying
to clear jammed machinery.
Nonmagnetic Tools
5. Always keep everyone clear when hoisting
heavy machinery or equipment by a chain fall.
You can get tools made of nonmagnetic
Guide the hoist with lines attached to the
materials through normal supply channels. You
will use them to maintain equipment that can be
equipment.
damaged if tools become magnetized. Normally,
6. Never plug in electric machinery without
knowing that the source voltage is the same as that
these tools are made from beryllium-copper or
called for on the nameplate of the machine.
plastic. They aren't as rugged as steel tools, and
can be damaged easily. Use them properly; they
Carefully inspect all portable power tools to
will last longer and operate properly.
be sure they are clean, well-oiled, and in working
order before you use them. The switches should
NOTE: Do not etch beryllium-copper tools.
operate normally, and the cords should be clean
When working near compasses and other
and free of defects. Ground the casings of all
components containing permanent magnets, you
electrically driven tools. Do not use sparking
always use nonmagnetic tools. Magnetic-
portable electric tools in any place where
susceptible tools could become magnetized
flammable vapors, gases, liquids, or exposed
and transfer this magnetic condition to other
explosives are present.
equipment.
Check to make sure that power cords do not
come in contact with sharp objects. Don't let
Insulated Tools
cords kink. Don't leave them where they might
be run over. Don't let cords contact oil, grease,
Often, safety considerations require use of
hot surfaces, or chemicals. When damaged,
insulated tools. You can get many types of
replace power cords. When unplugging power
insulated tools directly through supply channels.
tools from receptacles, you should grasp the plug,
If you can't get insulated tools through normal
not the cord.
supply channels, buy these tools locally, or modify
conventional tools. Put insulated sleeving on the
Soldering Iron
handles of pliers and wrenches and on the shanks
The soldering iron is a potential fire hazard
of screwdrivers. Only use tools modified in this
and a source of burns. Always assume a soldering
way on low-voltage circuits only because of the
iron is hot. Never rest the iron anywhere but on
insulating material's limitations. You can get
a metal surface or rack provided for that purpose.
special insulating handles for many common tools
Keep the iron holder in the open to reduce the
you use when working on equipment containing
danger of fire from accumulated heat. Don't
higher voltages.
shake the iron to get rid of excess solder. The hot
solder may strike someone or the equipment,
Power Tools
causing a short circuit. Hold small soldering jobs
with pliers or clamps.
In working as an Aviation Electrician's Mate,
When you are cleaning the iron, place the
you will use some shop machinery, such as a
cleaning rag on a suitable surface and wipe the
power grinder or drill press. In addition to the
iron across it. Don't hold the rag in your hand.
general precautions on the use of tools, there are
Disconnect the iron when leaving the work area,
a few other precautions to follow when working
even for a short time--the delay may be longer
with machinery. Some of the precautions are as
than planned.
follows:
1. Never operate a machine with a guard or
Grounding
cover removed.
A poor safety ground, or one with incorrect
2. Never operate mechanical or powered
wiring, is more dangerous than no ground at all,
equipment unless you know how to operate them.
