21 Outcome 2: Power Tools
Section Information
Outcome/Competency: You will be able to use and maintain power tools.
Timing: 1h
Rationale:
Why is it important for you to learn this skill?
Power tools are one of the most important pieces of equipment in a powerline technician’s arsenal. The work you will do is often dangerous and to address this, technicians must learn how to use and maintain power tools. If power tools malfunction, it puts the technician in danger of injury or even death.
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 power tools according to manufacturers specifications and company policies
Introduction:
In this section you will learn about cordless power tools such as the reciprocating saw, impact driver, drill, and grinder. You will be presented with concepts and given opportunities to see or hold some of these tools. You will then be given the opportunity to test your understanding so far with some review exercises.
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.
Topic: Cordless Tools (45m)
Cordless Reciprocating Saw
This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-ND
Cordless reciprocating saws are used for a variety of tasks. They can be used with different blades to cut different materials such as wood and metal . Commonly referred to as a “Sawzall,” this is an excellent tool for cutting bolts which are too large to cut with bolt cutters or bolts that have become seized due to years of exposure to the elements. As with the use of any tool , proper training and use as well as personal protective equipment is required to operate this tool .
Cordless Impact Driver
Cordless impact drivers are commonly used to install screws or lag bolts , drill holes with wood bits ,and to tighten or loosen nuts. These tools come in a variety of sizes with different sized chucks to facilitate many different bits . As with the use of any tool , proper training and use as well as personal protective equipment is required to operate this tool .
Cordless Drill
Cordless are used mainly to drill holes in wooden poles accompanied by a long wood bit sometimes called a ship auger bit. These drills are very powerful, and care must be taken when drilling holes that a firm grip is used as at all times. As with the use of any tool, proper training and use as well as personal protective equipment is required to operate this tool.
Cordless Grinder
Cordless grinders can be used to cut a variety of metals with ease and very quickly. That being said they can be very dangerous if used inappropriately . Guards must be in place and cannot be modified in any way. A face shield must be worn at all times when operating grinders in conjunction with safety glasses. If this tool is used incorrectly , the cutting disc can shatter causing severe injury or death . As with the use of any tool , proper training and use as well as personal protective equipment is required to operate this tool .
Review Exercises: Power Tools (15m)
- (T/F) Proper training is not required to operate power tools
- (T/F) PPE is not required when operating power tools
- (T/F) Face shields must be used when operating grinders
- (T/F) Only blades designed to cut wood can be used with a reciprocating saw
- (T/F) When using a cordless drill ensure you have a loose grip
Answer Key
1. F
2. F
3. T
4. F
5. F