Bahco Barracuda Hard Point Hand Saw, Panel Saw, Wood Cutting Saw, General Purpose Saw, Hardpoint Teeth

Tools and power tools covers everything from screwdrivers, pliers, saws and hammers to cordless drills, rotary hammers, angle grinders and the bits, blades and discs they use. It serves plumbing, electrical, joinery and general building work as well as DIY around the home.

Hand tools

Match the tool to the fixing: the right screwdriver tip (slotted, Pozidriv, Phillips or Torx), the right spanner or socket size, and a saw with the right teeth per inch for the material. For work on or near live electrical parts, use insulated tools made to BS EN IEC 60900, which covers hand tools for use up to 1,000 volts AC, and isolate the circuit wherever possible.

Power tools

• Drilling and driving: drill drivers drill and drive screws, combi drills add a hammer action for masonry, and rotary hammers are made for heavier drilling in masonry and concrete.
• Cutting and grinding: angle grinders, jigsaws and multi-tools take discs and blades for different materials. Never run an abrasive disc faster than the maximum speed marked by its maker, and check this against the tool's top speed.
• Cordless kits: kits pair one or more tools with a battery and charger. Check what is included, and that the battery voltage and fitting suit the tool, before buying more batteries or bare tools.

Safe use

Follow the manufacturer's instructions, keep guards fitted, and wear the eye, hearing and other protection the instructions specify. Regular use of hammer drills, grinders and similar tools exposes hands and arms to vibration; at work, the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005 require employers to assess and control that exposure, which can include choosing lower-vibration equipment.

For more detail, see hand tools and power tool spares and accessories.