Main risks

• Cuts, pinching and impacts to hands and fingers when handling spanners, pliers, pullers and metal parts.
• Flying fragments of metal, rust or debris when loosening, cutting or striking components.
• Burns from contact with the engine, exhaust, brakes or other hot surfaces, as well as from tools that heat up during use.
• Crushing or entrapment when lifting the vehicle or handling heavy components.
• Electric shock, sparks or short circuits when working on the electrical system or the battery.
• Inhalation of vapours from fuels, solvents and aerosols, and skin contact with oils, coolant or brake fluid.
• Exposure to high noise levels with impact wrenches, air hammers or other percussive tools.
• Sudden release of parts under tension (springs, clips, clamps) that may be ejected.
• Risk of fire or explosion due to the presence of flammable vapours and sparks.
• Muscular injuries from overexertion, awkward postures or prolonged use of vibrating tools.

Safe use

• Read and follow the instructions for each tool and always use the correct size and type for the task.
• Before starting, check that tools and accessories show no cracks, looseness, excessive wear or rounded edges.
• Use eye protection, oil-resistant gloves and hearing protection where appropriate; tie back hair and avoid loose clothing or jewellery.
• Work in a well-ventilated, tidy area; remove ignition sources when handling fuels or solvents and clean up any spills immediately.
• Switch off the engine and allow hot components to cool before working; if working on the electrical or fuel system, disconnect the battery where appropriate and avoid sparks.
• If lifting the vehicle, secure it with wheel chocks and stable axle stands; do not position yourself under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
• Apply force in a controlled, aligned manner; do not use pipes or other extenders for extra leverage if the tool is not designed for it.
• Do not strike tools that are not designed to be hit and keep hands clear of pinch points.
• With electric or pneumatic tools, disconnect the power/air supply before changing accessories; secure sockets and bits correctly and wait for a complete stop before setting them down.
• When releasing tension or pressure, do so gradually, using appropriate tools and directing parts away from the body.
• Tighten and loosen fasteners following the sequences and torque settings recommended by the vehicle manufacturer where applicable.

Storage and maintenance

• Clean tools after use to remove grease, dust and metal debris; dry them to prevent corrosion.
• Store them neatly in cases, boards or drawers, in a dry place and out of the weather; keep sets complete.
• Lubricate joints and moving mechanisms as necessary; protect exposed surfaces with a light coat of anti-corrosion oil.
• For pneumatic tools, purge moisture from hoses and reservoirs and apply the specified oil where appropriate.
• Regularly check hoses, cables, connectors and plugs; replace any damaged component immediately.
• Monitor wear on sockets, bits and spanners; discard cracked or deformed accessories.
• Periodically calibrate measuring tools and torque wrenches according to their usage.
• Transport sharp or heavy tools in a case or sheath; cover tips and edges to prevent cuts.
• Manage oil-soaked rags and chemical waste in suitable containers and ventilate the work area.
• Keep tools out of reach of children and pets.

Restrictions on use

• Not suitable as toys or for use by minors; inexperienced persons should start with simple tasks and, where appropriate, under supervision.
• Do not use tools that are damaged, modified or missing their original guards.
• Do not mix incompatible accessories (for example, using hand sockets with impact tools) or exceed the tool's capacity.
• Do not work under a poorly stabilised vehicle or use support points other than those specified by the vehicle manufacturer.
• Do not use electric or pneumatic tools on wet surfaces or in environments with flammable vapours.
• Do not smoke or use open flames when handling fuels or solvents.
• Do not work while fatigued, or under the influence of alcohol, drugs or medicines that reduce alertness.
• Do not force fasteners or components if there is unusual resistance; stop and check the cause before continuing.