Top Tool Tips: Screwdrivers

slotted symbol

Slotted:

Standard or flat for driving single slotted screws
philips symbol

Phillips (PH):

Designed specifically for use with Phillips® head screw, which has two recessed slots at right angles to each other
pozidriv/supadriv symbol

Pozidriv/Supadriv:

Similar to the Phillips ® style, the screw can be identified by additional lines on the face
inside hexagon symbol

Inside hexagon screws:

For use with hexagonal recesses
inside torx symbol

Inside Torx screws:

Star shaped, used in the automotive industry
torx tamperproof symbol

Torx Tamperproof:

Higher security than standard Torx screw fixings
nut spinner symbol

Nut spinners:

Extra deep sockets to reach nuts with protruding bolts

Safety

  1. Never use a screwdriver for anything other than turning screws (e.g. chiselling, prying or punching). This could damage the blade and affect life span and performance.
  2. Make sure the type of screwdriver is correct for the screw - philips & pozidrive look similar. If you get this wrong you could damage the head of the screw, or even the tip of the screwdriver.
  3. Make sure the tip of the screwdriver is the correct size for the screw. If you get this wrong you could damage the head of the screw or even the tip of the screwdriver.
  4. Never expose a screwdriver to excessive heat or cold.
  5. Discard a screwdriver with a worn or broken handle.
  6. Never hold an item in your hand while working on it. A slip with a screwdriver could cause serious injury.
  7. Never depend on a screwdriver’s handle or covered blade to insulate you from electricity. Always ensure circuits are not live before starting work.
  8. Check VDE tools regularly for breaks or cracks and do not use if insulation appears to be damaged.
  9. Keep tools clean and dry for longer life (plus assurance of insulation properties of VDE tools).
Top Tool Tips