The List of Hand Tools Your Business Should Have
By Grainger Editorial Staff 6/22/20
While a full toolbox is essential for construction businesses, companies in any industry should always be prepared with a basic list of workplace hand tools.
Offices, mobile businesses and even people who work from home may have to complete basic maintenance or repairs. To make sure you have the right tools on hand in case you have to hang a whiteboard, assemble a desk or handle other common business projects, collect this essential list of hand tools.
1. Claw Hammer
The head of a claw hammer allows you to drive nails for building, hanging wall decorations or assembling office furniture. Meanwhile, the claw end can be used to remove nails and open crates. While some businesses may use specialized hammers for more complex tasks, the claw hammer is a trusted standby at the top of any hand-tool list.
2. Adjustable Wrench
An adjustable wrench is useful when assembling furniture or conducting basic office plumbing repairs. There are many common situations where you might need a wrench to tighten or loosen bolts, nuts and a variety of fasteners due to the jaw's ability to loosen or tighten around different sized fasteners.
3. Multi-Bit Screwdriver
Screwdrivers are helpful when building and tightening office fixtures, furniture and equipment. You can choose to buy a set of screwdrivers with both Phillips heads and slot heads of varying sizes, but the bare minimum on any list of hand tools is the multi-bit screwdriver. This type of screwdriver has an interchangeable head that allows you to fit different screw types and sizes with one tool instead of multiple tools. They are ideal for a variety of uses such as repairing computers/electronics, assembling office furniture and automotive and engine repair.
4. Folding Hex Key Set
Hex keys or Allen wrenches are commonly used to fix and assemble furniture, upgrade electronics and adjust power tools. Unlike a wrench that’s used to grip, a hex key fits into a hexagonal-shaped hole often found at the head of a screw or other hardware. A folding hex key set can fit a half-dozen sizes or more, and folds up to fit inside a drawer, toolbox or pocket.
5. Pliers
Long-nose and needle-nose pliers are ideal when you need to cut, hold or pull. An extended nose helps reach into tight areas where pliers with shorter noses can't. Pliers are useful for gripping, bending and cutting.
6. Flashlight
Handheld flashlights are helpful during power outages, at night or when navigating dark or poorly lit office spaces. Some flashlights have rugged, waterproof designs that work well in rainy weather or wet areas.
7. Tape Measure
While a tape measure might not be the first tool to come to mind when making a list of hand tools, it’s one of the most commonly used items. Whether you need to measure a couple of inches or many feet to set up, install, or build anything in the office, a trusted tape measure can handle the job.
Other Essential Tools to Consider:
If you want to build an expanded list of hand tools and accessories for your business, here are some additions to consider:
If you’re looking to complete more complex tasks, you can consider adding power tools and specialized tools to your list of essentials.
The information contained in this article is intended for general information purposes only and is based on information available as of the initial date of publication. No representation is made that the information or references are complete or remain current. This article is not a substitute for review of current applicable government regulations, industry standards, or other standards specific to your business and/or activities and should not be construed as legal advice or opinion. Readers with specific questions should refer to the applicable standards or consult with an attorney.
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