Lesson 1: Basic DIY Tools & Safety - Cheat Sheet
Essential Tool Kit
Tool | Purpose | Estimated Cost | Priority |
Claw hammer | Hammering nails, removing nails | £10-15 | High |
Screwdriver set | Various screws (flathead, Phillips) | £15-20 | High |
Adjustable spanner | Nuts and bolts of different sizes | £8-12 | High |
Pliers | Gripping, bending, cutting wire | £10-15 | High |
Tape measure | Accurate measurements | £5-10 | High |
Utility knife | Cutting materials | £5-8 | High |
Spirit level | Ensuring things are straight | £8-15 | High |
Torch/headlamp | Illuminating work areas | £10-15 | Medium |
Safety gear | Eye, hand, respiratory protection | £15-25 | Essential |
Cordless drill/driver | Drilling holes, driving screws | £40-80 | Medium |
Allen key set | Furniture assembly, fixtures | £5-10 | Medium |
Hacksaw | Cutting metal, plastic, wood | £10-15 | Medium |
Voltage tester | Electrical safety | £8-12 | Medium |
Plunger | Clearing blockages | £5-10 | Medium |
Tool Quality Guide
Budget | Mid-Range | Professional |
Best for: Occasional use | Best for: Regular DIY | Best for: Frequent use |
Brands: Silverline, Rolson | Brands: Stanley, Draper | Brands: DeWalt, Makita |
Lifespan: 1-3 years | Lifespan: 5-10 years | Lifespan: 10+ years |
Warranty: Limited | Warranty: 1-3 years | Warranty: 3+ years |
Cost: £ | Cost: ££ | Cost: £££ |
Workspace Essentials
- Height: Work surface at 90-95cm for standing, 70-75cm for sitting
- Lighting: 300-500 lux minimum, position to avoid shadows
- Storage: Tools visible and accessible, heavy items at waist height
- Power: Multiple outlets, circuit with adequate capacity
- Protection: Drop cloths, splash guards for messy work
- Ventilation: Especially important when using paints, solvents
Safety Equipment Guide
Item | When to Use | Features to Look For |
Safety glasses | All tool use, especially power tools | Side protection, impact resistance |
Work gloves | Handling rough materials, sharp objects | Cut resistance, proper fit |
Dust mask | Sanding, dusty environments | N95 rating for fine particles |
Ear protection | Power tools, loud environments | Minimum 20dB noise reduction |
Knee pads | Floor work | Gel cushioning, adjustable straps |
First aid kit | Always accessible | Bandages, antiseptic, eye wash |
DIY Decision Matrix
Safe for DIY | Caution - Research First | Call a Professional |
Painting | Electrical repairs (switches/outlets) | Gas line work |
Furniture assembly | Basic plumbing repairs | Main electrical panel work |
Picture hanging | Drywall installation | Structural modifications |
Shelf installation | Toilet replacement | Roof repairs |
Door hardware | Flooring installation | HVAC system work |
Basic gardening | Window replacement | Major tree removal |
Common Tool Techniques
- Hammering: Hold near end of handle, use wrist action, start with gentle taps
- Screwdriving: Use correct size, maintain pressure, keep aligned with screw
- Measuring: “Measure twice, cut once,” account for thickness of measuring tape case
- Drilling: Mark spot first, start slowly, pull out to clear debris, use appropriate bit
- Sawing: Secure material, use full stroke length, let saw do the work, support cut piece
Emergency Response
- Cut/Injury: Clean with antiseptic, apply pressure, seek medical help if severe
- Electrical shock: Turn off power, do not touch person directly, call emergency services
- Fire: Use appropriate extinguisher (A-paper/wood, B-liquid, C-electrical), evacuate if needed
- Chemical exposure: Flush with water, refer to product safety data sheet
- Tool damage: Discontinue use, isolate damaged tool, replace before continuing work