Mechanics Tools
Primary 6 · Science and Elementary Technology
Mechanics Tools
Lesson 4 of 5
12 min
Let's begin
Ishimwe wanted to open a tin of paint, but there was no tin opener, so he pushed a screwdriver under the lid and pressed down hard. The screwdriver slipped and its tip went into his palm. The tin opened, and so did a cut that needed stitches at the health centre.
The screwdriver was not a bad tool. The danger came from how it was used.
You misuse a tool when you:
| What someone does | What can happen |
|---|---|
| Uses a screwdriver to lever open a tin | The tip slips or snaps and stabs the hand. |
| Uses a spanner or pliers of the wrong size on a nut | The tool slips, knuckles hit metal, and the nut is ruined. |
| Hammers with a loose hammer head | The head flies off and hits someone. |
| Holds metal in one hand while cutting it with a hacksaw | The work moves, the blade snaps, and the hand is cut. |
| Carries sharp tools in a pocket or points them at people | Stab wounds and cuts. |
| Leaves tools lying on the floor | People trip and fall. |
| Drills or files metal without goggles | Tiny metal chips fly into the eyes. |
| Uses a blunt blade and pushes very hard | The tool slips and cuts. |
| Gets under a car held up only by a jack | The car can fall and crush the person. This can kill. |
| Plays with tools or throws them | Injuries to you and to others nearby. |
Warning
Never go under a vehicle that is held up only by a jack. A jack is for lifting, not for holding. Mechanics put strong metal axle stands under the car before anyone works beneath it.
Misuse hurts more than the person holding the tool.
Being responsible means thinking before you act. Stop and tell an adult if you see a damaged tool or someone using a tool dangerously. Put tools away where small children cannot reach them. Being responsible also means looking after other people's safety, not only your own.
Tip
Before you pick up any tool, ask three questions:
1. Is it the right tool for this job? 2. Is it the right size? 3. Is it in good condition?
Three "yes" answers mean you can start. One "no" means stop.
Try each one first, then tap Show answer to check.
Niyonzima holds a metal pipe in his left hand and saws it with his right. What is the danger, and what should he do?
Answer: The pipe can move, the blade can snap and he can cut his hand. He should clamp the pipe in a vice.
Why is leaving a spanner on the garage floor dangerous?
Answer: Someone can step on it, trip and fall, perhaps onto something sharp or hot.
Umutoni's brother wants to fix something under a car that is held up only by a jack. What should she tell him?
Answer: Do not go under it. A jack can slip and the car can fall on him. Axle stands must hold the car first, and an adult mechanic should do the job.
What you learned today
Sources and credits
Quick check
Which of these is misusing a tool?
