Measuring tape
Measures lengths, offsets and diagonals on site.
How to use / tip: Keep it taut and level; use two people beyond 5 m and re-check every reading.
Tools & Equipment
Know what each tool is for, how to use it properly and how to stay safe.
Laser distance meter
Gives fast room lengths, heights and areas.
How to use / tip: Use a target plate outdoors and verify the first reading with a tape.
Spirit level / water level
Checks horizontal (level) and vertical (plumb) surfaces.
How to use / tip: Flip the level end to end; both readings must match, otherwise it is out of calibration.
Auto level / total station
Transfers levels and sets out points over a whole site.
How to use / tip: Close your survey loop back to the start point to detect errors.
Plumb bob & mason line
Checks vertical alignment of walls and columns and keeps courses straight.
How to use / tip: Let the bob stop swinging before you read it; stretch the line tight.
Chalk line
Snaps long straight reference lines on floors and walls.
How to use / tip: Pull the string fully taut, then snap straight up, not sideways.
Trowel, float & jointer
Spreading mortar, finishing plaster and concrete, and tooling joints.
How to use / tip: Wet the surface first and keep tools clean so they do not drag the finish.
Brick hammer & chisel
Cutting and trimming bricks and blocks.
How to use / tip: Score the line first, then strike firmly; always wear eye protection.
Rebar tying hook & cutter
Ties reinforcement crossings and cuts bars.
How to use / tip: Tie every alternate crossing at least, and keep the specified cover blocks in place.
Spade, shovel & pickaxe
Manual excavation, mixing and backfilling.
How to use / tip: Lift with your legs, not your back, and keep trench edges clear of tools.
Concrete mixer
Mixes concrete or mortar on site in batches.
How to use / tip: Add water and aggregate first, then cement and sand; mix for 1.5 to 2 minutes and clean after use.
Needle / poker vibrator
Removes air pockets and compacts fresh concrete.
How to use / tip: Insert vertically at regular spacing and withdraw slowly; do not over-vibrate.
Angle grinder
Cuts steel, tiles and masonry; grinds surfaces.
How to use / tip: Always fit the guard, use the correct disc and wear a face shield.
Rotary hammer drill
Drills holes in concrete and masonry.
How to use / tip: Use a sharp SDS bit, let the tool do the work and clear dust from the hole.
Tile cutter
Makes clean straight and angled cuts in tiles.
How to use / tip: Mark the cut, keep the blade wet if it is a wet saw, and push steadily.
Plate compactor / roller
Compacts soil, sand and gravel under floors and roads.
How to use / tip: Compact in thin layers (about 150 mm) and overlap each pass.
Excavator / backhoe
Digs foundations, trenches and loads material.
How to use / tip: Keep people outside the swing radius and the trench edge.
Transit mixer & concrete pump
Delivers and places ready-mix concrete at height or distance.
How to use / tip: Plan the pour sequence and access in advance; keep the pump line clean.
Crane / hoist
Lifts steel, formwork and materials to upper levels.
How to use / tip: Never exceed the load chart; use a trained signaller.
Dumper & loader
Moves soil, sand, aggregate and debris around the site.
How to use / tip: Do not carry riders and keep a clear route.
Shuttering & props
Forms the shape of columns, beams and slabs until concrete gains strength.
How to use / tip: Check alignment, oil the faces and brace props before pouring.
Scaffolding
Safe working platform for walls, plaster and painting at height.
How to use / tip: Base plates on firm ground, ties to the building and guard rails on every platform.
Ladders
Short-term access between levels.
How to use / tip: Use the 4:1 rule (1 m out for every 4 m up) and keep three points of contact.
Hard hat & safety shoes
Head and foot protection against falling objects and nails.
How to use / tip: Replace a hard hat after any heavy impact; use steel toe shoes.
Gloves, goggles & mask
Protect hands, eyes and lungs from cement, dust and chips.
How to use / tip: Cement burns skin; wash immediately if wet cement touches you.
Safety harness
Prevents falls when working at height.
How to use / tip: Anchor above shoulder level and inspect straps before every use.
Hi-vis vest & first aid kit
Makes workers visible and gives first response to injuries.
How to use / tip: Keep the kit stocked and know where it is on every site.
No tool found. Try another word or category.