Screwdrivers

The screwdriver is very versatile and certainly one of the most common and frequently used -- or misused - tools we have. It comes in many sizes and lengths. The first time you may have used one was when you were a child to adjust the chain guard on your bicycle.

Screwdrivers are usually made of well-tempered steel bar or rod, flattened or shaped at one end to fit into the slots in screw heads. The other end of the bar is fitted into a handle of wood, plastic, etc., which is often reinforced to prevent splitting.

Screwdrivers are found in various craft worker's tool boxes or pouches. Carpenters, millwrights, electricians, mechanics, painters and plumbers all use them in their daily work. As with all hand tools, it is up to the user to make certain that his or her screwdrivers are in good shape; therefore, you should inspect them before each use. Look for split or cracked handles and check the tips to make sure that they are not damaged. It just takes a few seconds to make a quick check, but those seconds could make the difference between an injury and just another turn of the screw.

When using a screwdriver use it as the manufacturer intended. It is designed to be held with a firm grip and used with a turning motion. A screwdriver is not intended to be used as a pry-bar; nor is it intended to be used as a chisel. Using a screwdriver instead of one of these tools could cause the tip or shaft to chip or snap resulting in an injury. Avoid hitting the top of the handle with a hammer or other tool as this may cause the handle to crack or break.

When carrying a screwdriver, keep it pointed away from your body with the sharp end pointing down. A lot of workers have the bad habit of putting screwdrivers in their back pockets with the pointed end sticking up; loss of balance, a backward fall, or even a quick turn could result in a serious puncture wound.

Treat all sharp pointed tools with respect. Prevent unnecessary accidents by carrying and using them with safety in mind.