Implements, Tools, and Equipment Safety
Implements, Tools, and Equipment Safety
This domain tests hand-tool maintenance, electrical safety, and preventing cross-contamination.
Core rules
- Shears: keep blades dry and oiled; do not drop them; sharpen when cutting feels like pulling; never use shears on wire or extensions.
- Clippers: brush out hair, oil the blade, align the blade; unplug before cleaning.
- Electrical: inspect cords for fraying; use GFCI outlets near water; do not run cords across walkways.
- Store clean tools in a clean, closed container; keep dirty tools separate.
- Disinfectant solutions must be changed per label; some corrode carbon steel.
Worked example
A clipper starts pulling and getting hot. Unplug it, remove the blade, brush out hair, oil the blade and pivot, realign, and test. If it still pulls, replace the blade. Do not dip the clipper body in disinfectant.
Traps
Putting shears in disinfectant that dulls them; using a frayed cord; skipping blade alignment; and storing clean tools at a dirty station.