This post is sponsored by XL
We’ve discussed many time on The Builder’s Wife how dangerous working with tools can be, but have you considered how to keep your tools safe from others? It is important to keep your work site safe and secure while keeping your tools out of reach of others. Here are three suggestions for keeping your tools safe and secure on the worksite.
Pack Them Away in a Private Compartment
Having secure storage may seem like an obvious answer, but finding a practical and easily accessible way to do this can be a challenge. Most tools are far to heavy, and you often require so many that it’s not possible to carry them around in a locked safe while you work. Another option would be to store your tools in an onsite locker, but that option is not always available. Another option is to add a service body to the back of your ute. These means that wherever you go, you can keep your tools safe and secure, while keeping them handy to you. No-one can enter the locked service body without your knowledge, and you wont have to unpack your tools until you require them. Companies like XL have a great range of option for different service bodies and work requirements.
Limit the Number of People with Access to Your Tools
If you need to have a number of tools out at any one time, don’t leave them lying around site, consider securing them by bringing them to the space in which you are working. This will reduce the number of people who have access to them. Again while sounding like an obvious answer, don’t allow people to be on site unless it is necessary for them to be there at that time. If you are fortunate enough to have a secure area, use this to lock everything up. Another option is to have everyone sign in on site at the beginning and end of each day. This keeps accountability between your co-workers.
Keep Your Tools Together
Often we need to have a few tools out at once, it is imperative to keep your tools together, having them separate leaves them vulnerable to theft or damage. A simple way to keep them together would be to use a chain or cable ties, particularly for smaller tools. Locking them into a group, prevents one tool being quietly and easily removed without your knowledge. Have a chat with your local hardware store for suggestions on how best to do this. Smaller and lighter tools may even be able to fit into a tool belt or in a tool bag.
These are just a few simple ways to keep your tools safe and secure at work, but there are plenty of other options available. Consider having your tools engraved with an identifying serial number, and store tools in a designated permanent home, making it easy to notice if something is missing at the beginning or end of each day. A few simple tricks can safe you the stress of having to replace expensive tools.
How do you keep your tools safe and secure? Do you have any tips to share?
Nicole xxx
