Bringing Tools Back to Life
Ever wondered what happens to tools once they are donated? The ‘Goods In’ volunteers sort and organise all donations. From adjustable spanners to wheelnut spanners every tool finds its temporary home in a box on our ‘alphabetically labelled shelving’, before our ‘Tools Refurb’ volunteers take the tools to be transformed and repaired.
The weekly picker’s list guides the Tools Refurb volunteers to select the urgently required tools and start the process of bringing them back to life. Metal tools with no loose parts head for a spin in the Vibro machine better known as the Rumbler Tumbler. The Rumbler Tumbler (installed in 2022, thanks to a grant) has significantly increased the number of tools that we can refurbish. “It saves a lot of elbow grease. It can clean up to 100 tools at a time – in just 45 minutes! Using a combination of ceramic chips, a litre of water and eco-friendly detergent, the rust is gently removed,” says Tony.
Tony has volunteered with the charity for nearly nine years. After retiring from his job as an accountant, he wanted to learn something new and volunteer, so after being shown around the workshop, he never looked back. As a volunteer in the workshop, he fixes, cleans and oils (with a new plant based eco-friendly solution) tools for Africa. He also volunteers in The Workaid Shop, where his knowledge of tools is invaluable.
From accountants, engineers to nuclear scientists, there is a wealth of experience and knowledge amongst the team. Richard our plane expert, computer engineer by background turned carpenter, volunteers one morning a week. “I have learnt so much about different tools coming here and we all teach each other.”
Hammers, planes or any wooden tools not suitable for the Vibro machine head to the volunteer workbenches to be refurbished and given new life. With the additional help of a room filled with an array of machines including sanders, grinding stones and polishing machines, surface rust can be removed easily. Tools can be buffed to make them almost as good as new in no time at all.
Once the tools are refurbished and ready to go, they are taken to ‘Picking & Packing’ from there they are checked off the project list and packed into the container ready to begin a new life in Africa.
The journey begins with someone choosing to give tools and equipment a second life and save them from landfill. In turn, this generosity allows us to empower young people in Africa and help them build sustainable livelihoods.
“I really enjoy getting things to work again. It can sometimes be a real challenge. It’s good fun and keeps your mind active.” Tony, refurb volunteer.
Has this sparked your interest to learn more about our volunteer opportunities and find a role that you are passionate about? Find out more here.