Tool Control

Tool control can come in many forms; shadowed tool boxes, etched tools with a location or personal identification, a manned tool shop, a personal chit system, etc.

A “tool” in a FOD Program is defined as anything that is not on an engineering drawing for a part or vehicle. Examples would be traditional tools such as ratchets, screwdrivers, etc. down to nontraditional tools such as rags, paper (ex: forms, planners), pencils, etc. Anything that is not a part of the vehicle or part is a “tool’ and needs to be controlled.

Tools brought into an FCA either need to be taken out of the FCA when not in use or locked in a toolbox or some other fashion to ensure they do not become lost.

Unattended tools that are left on workbenches, toolboxes, etc. are considered a FOD hazard. Unattended tools are no longer being accounted for and can be lost or picked up by another employee which can cause a lost tool issue.

Tools that an employee checks out must always be in their control. An organization can help employee tool control by issuing small locking toolboxes when an employee checks out tools. This prevents “picking” from other employees and keeps tool accountability with the individual who checked the tools out. At the end of a shift, all tools and toolboxes must be returned to ensure that everything is serviceable and accounted for before the employee leaves for the day.

Discarding easily removable pocket clips from tools prior to placement in tool kits helps to prevent lost tool issues. Tools should never be disassembled or damaged for the purpose of removing clips, rubber switch guards, etc.