Manufacturing discoveries

Eye and hand protection guidelines for hand tools

Wear safety glasses and well-fitting gloves when appropriate, but avoid wearing bulky gloves that reduce dexterity.

Correct force direction when using a wrench or pliers

Pull on the tool rather than pushing; if pushing is necessary, hold the tool with an open palm.

Proper procedure for transferring tools to another worker

Hand tools directly to workers handle-first; never throw them.

Bench safety placement for sharp tools

Point sharp edges away from aisles and ensure handles do not extend over the edge of the bench top.

Safe method for transporting tools up a ladder or scaffold

Raise and lower tools using a bucket and hand line so both hands remain free while climbing.

Cutting direction safety rule

Always cut away from yourself and never hold the stock in the palm of your hand.

Center Punch

A tool used to create a small indentation in a workpiece to prevent a drill bit from slipping.

Speed Square

A triangular layout tool used by woodworkers to quickly measure and mark $90^\text{o}$ and $45^\text{o}$ angles.

Forstner Bits

Specialized drill bits designed to bore flat-bottomed, smooth-sided holes in wood.

Wood Lathe Chisels

Hand-held cutting tools designed to shape stock while it rotates on a wood lathe.