22 Outcome 1: Hand Tools
Section Information
Outcome/Competency: You will be able to use and maintain hand tools
Timing: 3h
Rationale:
Why is it important for you to learn this skill?
Powerline technicians need to use a wide range of hand tools as part of their day-to-day jobs. The proper selection, maintenance, and use of hand tools helps ensure the safety of yourself, your colleagues, and others around you. This can avoid injury and death caused due to tool malfunction or incorrect use.
Objectives:
To be competent in this area, the individual must be able to:
- Explain how to identify, select, and use hand tools
- Explain how to clean, store, and maintain hand tools
Learning Goals
- Explain how to select, use, and maintain hand tools according to manufacturer’s specifications and company policies
Introduction:
In this section you will learn about the six main personal PLT tools (Lineman body belt tools, crescent wrench, screwdriver, rulers and tape measures, skinning knife, and ball peen hammer), as well as learn about different kinds of cutters. You will be presented with theoretical content and given an opportunity to see and hold some of these tools. You will then be given short review exercises to test your understanding so far.
Instructions:
- Cover the following content in each topic as a group (either reading out loud or independently) then give an opportunity to answer any questions.
- As you discuss each tool, give students an opportunity to hold the tool. Where possible, demonstrate how the tool is used. Ensure all proper PPE is used and safety should always come first.
- Have students do the review questions independently, then take up answers, and answer any questions.
Topic 1: Six Main Personal PLT Tools (1h)
Lineman Body Belt Tools
This plier is sometimes called a Klien, named after the manufacturer of this line of tools. It has only one purpose – to cut wire.
If the pliers open and close hard, they can be loosened. Here’s how:
- To loosen, place the pliers on a solid surface with the cutting edge up. Using a punch and hammer, tap the centre rivet lightly, checking for stiffness after each tap.
- To tighten, follow the same procedure, except this time the cutting edge is down against the solid surface.
Make sure the two cutting edges are sharp and not chipped. The cutting edges should be parallel. If light is visible between the cutting edges when the pliers are closed, the pliers may not cut completely. The insulated handle covers should be replaced of not intact.
Crescent Wrench or Adjustable Wrench
Proper care and maintenance will keep the tool working correctly for years.
If the jaws are not snug on the nut or bolt, the wrench might slip, and you could injure yourself.
Check the locking screw in the worm gear. The screw sometimes needs to be tightened with a screwdriver.
Use light oil or graphite powder to lubricate the worm gear and the sliding lower jaw.
The solid portion of the wrench is designed to take most of the load wh