Before we can build the ships the U.S. Navy relies on, the tools we use to do the work must be safe, maintained and ready. That’s why it’s critical that everything you touch has Zero Damages before the job and once you’ve completed using it.
“There's a right tool for every job and there's a right way to use that tool,” said David Walker, tool room foreman. “It's essential to have good tools, but it's also essential that the tool should be used in the right way.”
WHY IT MATTERS
Every job at Ingalls starts with the tool in your hand. Caring for tools, using them correctly and returning them on time is part of our mission. It helps us work safely and deliver first-time quality.
A small team across 15 tool rooms inspects, repairs, tests and issues every pneumatic tool, hose assembly and calibrated item, supporting thousands of shipbuilders and making sure each grinder, burner motor, needle gun and air line is safe and ready.
But once that tool leaves the room, its care is in your hands.
“Using and handling our tools the right way makes sure the next shipbuilder has what they need to get the job done,” said Joaquin Orozco, Trades superintendent. “Turning tools in when you’re finished gives our tool room crews the time to service and maintain them so they’re ready for the next person.”
Use the Right Tool for the Job: If you’re unsure which tool is meant for a task, ask your foreman or the Tool Room. Never use a tool in a way it wasn’t designed for. Personally owned electric-powered or calibrated tools are not permitted for use by Ingalls shipbuilders. These tools can be issued by the Tool Room if needed.
Oil Pneumatic Tools Regularly: The most common damage the Tool Room sees is dry tools. Pneumatic tools run on air. That air dries out internal components. Always oil tools before you start a job, every couple hours while using the tool, and again when you finish.
Inspect Tools Before Use: Check guards, handles, triggers and cords or hoses. Make sure trigger safeties function. Never remove a guard unless your supervisor approves it for a specific task.
Keep Air Hoses + Whips in Good Shape: Lay hoses so they’re not pinched, kinked or dragging across sharp edges. Keep couplings clean and tight. Report leaks or cuts immediately.
Clean Tools After Use: Wipe dust and grit off grinders and motors. Blow out air passages when allowed. Store tools in a clean, dry place, not in standing water or on the deck where they can be stepped on.
Store + Return Tools Properly: Lock and store tools the way your foreman instructs. Return temporarily loaned tools when you’re done. Bring back permanently loaned tools when your job assignment changes. All serialized tools must be returned every 90 days for inspection. Always clean tools before turning them in. It helps attendants spot wear and tear early.
Report Lost or Damaged Tools: Report lost tools immediately. If something breaks during the job, turn it in; don’t try to “tough it out.” Intentional damage to company property can have consequences.
Respect Others’ Tools: Never use another shipbuilder’s tools without permission. Return borrowed tools the same way you got them—clean, oiled and in good working order. Treat all tools as if you paid for them with your own money.
ZERO IN ON ZERO DAMAGES
Caring for your tools is one of the simplest and most important ways to prevent damage, avoid rework and deliver quality the first time.
“Take care of it like it’s your own, like you spent your own money on it, because a lot of the abuse we see on these tools is unnecessary,” said David.
If you need help or have questions about the tools you use, visit any Tool Room or talk with your foreman. The team is here to support you, so you can do the job safely, correctly and with pride.
ZERO FIRES. ZERO INJURIES. ZERO DAMAGES. ZERO COMPROMISE