you are most welcome to my class and share with me your concerns in the topic we are discussing enjoy the class.
key outcomes
1. Identify tools used in the farm - garden tools, woodworking tools, metal tools, and the basic tools used for fencing, mechanics and farming activities.
2. Demonstrate the skills of using farm tools and implements for better production.
3. Show skill in using common measurement tools for length, volume, time and mass/weight.
4. Express basic occupational safety and health standards in agriculture.
5. Explain skills in applying the steps in giving first aid on the farm.
There are a variety of farm tools, implements and machines used on the farm to make work easier and quicker for the farmer. Farm tools are categorized based on the type of work they are used for. Thus, we have garden tools, wood working tools, metal working tools, measuring tools and the basic tools used for fencing, mechanics and animal management.
Farm tool is any relatively simple device that is used to simplify farm task. For example, hoes, spanners, slashers, rakes, dehorning irons, spades, pangas etc.
Farm equipment is any relatively complex tool usually a combination of tools used in variety of farm tasks. For example; tractors, sprayers, ploughs, wheelbarrows, millers, jack planes etc. Farm implement is a tool or equipment pulled or pushed by hands or another machine over the surface. For example; disc plough, harrows, mowers, planters etc.
Reasons for using tools, equipment and machines ion the farm
i. To increase the ease of doing farm jobs.
ii. To help a farmer to produce good quality works on the farm.
iii. To help to speed up the rate at which work is done on the farm.
iv. To increase the level of production on the farm.
v. To increase efficiency of the farmer at work.
vi. To relieve the farmer of fatigue from tiring jobs.
vii. To increase safety on the farm.
Many measurement tools and equipment are used on the farm to measure distances, weights and volumes.
Weighing scales used to measure mass/weight.
Thermometer used for recording and taking temperature of the body eg an animal and human person
Tape measures used to measure length of different materials, area of land, planting holes, farm structures etc
Micrometer used to measure very small objects. A micrometer is capable of measuring length in 0.001 of an inc
Vernier caliper used to measure various dimensions on the farm equipment. It can measure inside or outside and in some cases depth measurements.
Feeler gauges used to check and adjust clearances spaces to specific measurements. It is made of thin metal blades or wires, of different thickness in thousandths of an inch.
Tools and equipment are designed to perform a particular task on the farm. For instance, a hoe is used to dig soil. Therefore, when choosing a tool, make sure you use the right tool for the right job. Farm tools, equipment and implements should be kept free from rust and slippery oils and be kept in good mechanical condition.
Ensuring proper use of farm tools and equipment
i. Following the manufacturer ‘s instructions on how to use the tool/ equipment.
ii. The tool/equipment should be used by the work that is skilled in using it.
iii. Use the tool for only its designed purpose.
iv. Organize the tools in a store; put them in tool cabins or rack.
v. Wipe each tool clean after use.
vi. Never throw tools or equipment into a tool box. Carefully place each tool or equipment into its proper place in the store or tray.
vii. Never leave tools or equipment lying about, especially on the floor.
viii. Record each tool when getting it from the store and on returning it.
ix. Report damaged, broken and lost tools as you return from doing the task.
x. Always put tools or equipment away at the end of the activity, even if you are working in a closed room. They must be maintained and kept safely.
xi. They should be kept free from rust by painting and oiling.
xii. Sharpen the cutting edges regularly.
xiii. Oiling/greasing joints and bearings regularly.
xiv. Checking and repairing the damaged tool.