We talk a lot about doing pre-work inspections on heavy equipment and power tools. But hand tools seem to get forgotten along the way.  As simple as these tools may seem, an inspection is still necessary. A bent wrench or a dull knife can cause significant injuries.

Do a once over with your tools every time you use them. Look for corrosion, the temper is still intact, mushroom heads, chips in drill bits or screwdrivers, bent, worn or broken handles. Make sure to repair them before use or tag them out. It also pays to keep your tools clean and stored neatly when not in use.

Doing a 5 second inspection could save you from a potential injury. You should never be in that much of a hurry that a few seconds will set you back… An injury will set you back much longer than that.