NCCER Core Hand Tools & Power Tools 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What safety device must be functional on a portable circular saw?
- Laser guide
- Lower blade guard that retracts and returns automatically (Correct answer)
- Dust collection bag
- Speed control dial
Correct answer: Lower blade guard that retracts and returns automatically
A circular saw must have a functioning lower blade guard that retracts when cutting and springs back when done.
OSHA requires an upper fixed guard and a lower retractable guard that automatically returns to fully closed position. Pinning, tying, or removing the lower guard is a serious violation. Additional requirements include proper grounding or double-insulation.
Question 2: What is the primary difference between a drill and an impact driver?
- A drill is cordless while an impact driver requires a cord
- An impact driver delivers rotational force plus concussive blows (Correct answer)
- A drill is only for metal while an impact driver is for wood
- No significant difference
Correct answer: An impact driver delivers rotational force plus concussive blows
An impact driver combines rotation with rapid concussive blows for higher torque.
An impact driver uses an internal hammer and anvil mechanism delivering rapid rotational impacts (3,000+ per minute), producing 2-3x the torque of a standard drill with less wrist strain. Uses hex-shank bits. Not ideal for precision drilling or delicate materials.
Question 3: Where should the tool rest be positioned on a bench grinder?
- 3 inches from the wheel
- Within 1/8 inch of the wheel (Correct answer)
- Touching the wheel
- Behind the wheel
Correct answer: Within 1/8 inch of the wheel
The tool rest must be within 1/8 inch of the grinding wheel to prevent work pieces from being pulled in.
OSHA 1926.303(c)(7) requires the tool rest within 1/8 inch and the tongue guard within 1/4 inch. Before starting, perform a ring test (tap for cracks). Stand to the side during startup. Never grind on the side of a wheel not designed for it.
Question 4: What should you check before changing a blade on a power tool?
- That it is plugged in and the switch is on
- That it is unplugged or battery removed (Correct answer)
- That someone is watching
- That the blade guard is removed
Correct answer: That it is unplugged or battery removed
Always disconnect the power source before changing blades or making adjustments.
For corded tools, unplug from the outlet (not just turn off the switch). For cordless tools, remove the battery. After changing the blade, verify it is properly tightened and guards function correctly before returning to work.
Question 5: What power tool is designed to cut metal, masonry, and tile?
- Jigsaw
- Angle grinder with appropriate disc (Correct answer)
- Router
- Biscuit joiner
Correct answer: Angle grinder with appropriate disc
An angle grinder accepts different discs for cutting and grinding different materials.
Angle grinders accept: abrasive cut-off wheels for metal, diamond blades for masonry/concrete/tile, grinding wheels for metal smoothing, and flap discs for finishing. Safety requires: properly installed guard, face shield, hearing protection, and gloves. The disc must be rated for the tool's maximum RPM.
Question 6: What is the correct procedure when a power tool's cord is damaged?
- Wrap with electrical tape and continue
- Remove from service and have it repaired by a qualified person (Correct answer)
- Switch to a lower power outlet
- Cut off the damaged section and splice
Correct answer: Remove from service and have it repaired by a qualified person
A tool with a damaged cord must be immediately removed from service and properly repaired.
OSHA requires damaged tools be immediately removed from service (29 CFR 1926.302). Taping is not acceptable as it does not restore insulation rating. Many sites implement daily cord inspection as part of their assured equipment grounding conductor program.
NCCER Core Hand Tools & Power Tools 2
What safety device must be functional on a portable circular saw?