Loaning out tools is something that happens often in a workshop setting.
When you happen to be on the borrowing end there are 6 Golden Rules we think you should follow...
#1 - Ask!
This might seem like a no brainer but in some workshops the number of times technicians will dive into anothers toolbox without asking permission is astounding. In most cases, it's not going to be an issue to borrow a tool, but do the right thing and ask permission. It's not a good feeling to be walking through the workshop and seeing another tech using your tools without your permission.
#2 - Respect it
If you are going to borrow tools off of another technician, use it for the purpose it was intended for. If you want to go using screwdrivers as prybars or a ratchet as a hammer with your own tools, knock yourself out. (Although aside from being too lazy to walk back to your toolbox, why would you?) If you are borrowing tools from another tech, show some respect for them and treat them properly.
#3 - Clean it
By the very nature of the areas of a motor vehicle we work on, tools get dirty, thats fine. Don't go and dump a greasy, oily tool back in someone elses toolbox. In our eyes, this is really disrespectful. In fact, go to the extra effort to clean it beyond the condition it was borrowed in. This shows the tech you borrowed it from that you appreciate the loan and respect their property.
#4 - Return it
Who else has spent 10 minutes looking for a tool to find it is in someone elses toolbox or cart/trolley? If you borrow a tool, return it when you are finished with it. Time is precious and the tech who has been generous enough to loan out their tools should not have to waste their own time recovering them.
#5 - Replace it
Break it? Well unless the tool is covered by warranty, you're probably going to have to replace it. Sometimes tools break, it's part of the job but in most instances you can't expect the technician who loaned you the tool/s to have to pay to replace what you have broken.
#6 - Buy your own
If you need to borrow a certain tool once in a while, fine. If you find yourself borrowing the same tool from someone over and over and over, it's time to buy your own. Although the tech you're borrowing it from might not tell you, they are going to get sick of lending you the same tool over and over again. Take a hint. It's your job as a professional technician to have the tools to carry out your craft. The exception to this rule might be for apprentices where cash is tight and they might not be in a position to invest in some of the more specialty tools.
#7- What are your thoughts?
Anything we should add to this list? Have your say in the Mechanic.com.au Private Facebook Group (Mechanic.com.au Members Only)
