Tools and Equipment
Domain 2 covers classifying, selecting, inspecting and caring for hand tools, power tools and test instruments, and choosing the right machine for the material in front of you.
Classify before you choose
- Measuring and marking, holding, cutting, boring, tightening, testing and lifting are the working groups.
- Power tools on a plumbing site include the rotary hammer, angle grinder, diamond core cutter, pipe threading machine, drain-cleaning machine, pressure jetter and portable welding set.
Selection and care rules
- Match the tool to the material and size: diamond core for RCC, HSS bit for mild steel, masonry bit for brick.
- Grinder: guard in place, wheel rated above the machine speed, no forcing, and never side-grind with a cutting wheel.
- Rotary hammer and core cutter: RCD or ELCB protection, intact cable, dust extraction or wet suppression.
- Threading machine: correct die head, steady cutting oil, and support for long pipe.
- Test gear such as pressure gauges, manometers and voltage testers must be checked and zeroed before use.
- Clean, oil and store dry; report cracked handles and frayed cords; never carry a power tool by its cable.
Worked example
You need a 110 mm hole through a 200 mm RCC wall. Reasoning: a hammer drill and chisel will damage the wall and take far too long, so a diamond core cutter with water cooling gives a clean, accurate hole. Before drilling, check for rebar and hidden conduits with a detector, and use a machine with a clutch so it does not twist your wrist if the core jams.
Traps
Fitting a 100 mm wheel on a 125 mm grinder; using a wood bit on metal; lifting a machine by its cable; skipping the pre-use check.