10 Apr Wrenches

Wrenches

Wrenches—a very good name for this tool in that all too often it is the condition of a worker’s back after misusing a wrench. (Wrenched back, get it?) It is not only a back that can be injured, as we will see after our discussion.

Guide for Discussion

Proper Care

• Inspect on a regular basis
• Replace sprung jaws, cages and faces Replace all bent handles
• Keep the jaws sharp
• Keep the wrench clean and free of grease and oil.

Proper Use

• Always use the proper size wrench for the job.
• Never use a shim to make a wrong size wrench fit a nut.
• Never use a piece of pipe on the handle to increase your leverage. (Slip hazard.) Don’t use a wrench as a substitute for a hammer.
• Don’t pound on a wrench to try to loosen a frozen bolt. Use penetrating oil. Always pull a wrench toward you—never push away. (Slip hazard.)
• See that the wrench jaws are sharp and can bite the nut.

Additional Discussion Notes:

Avoid possible falls – be sure you have firm footing. Using a wrench on moving equipment? Never.

Remember:    After you have several banged up knuckles or a busted finger because of improper use of a wrench, you have learned the hard way that a wrench is dangerous. Bottom line: If you use a wrench improperly, it can cause painful injuries.