Screwdriving Training - Gauteng

Objective: 

To provide participants with a complete understanding of screwdriving tools, bit types, applications, torque control, safety practices, and troubleshooting—enabling correct tool selection, improved work quality, and confident customer guidance.

Modules:

1. Introduction to Screwdriving:
   • What screwdriving is and where it is used (construction, woodworking, metalwork, assembly, DIY, electronics).
     
   • The difference between manual screwdrivers, power drills, impact drivers, and cordless screwdrivers.
     
   • Importance of using the correct bit and torque for consistent, safe fastening.
2. Screw Anatomy & Terminology: 
   Participants learn the parts of a screw and why they matter:
   
   • Head type (flat, countersunk, pan, hex, etc.)
     
   • Drive type (Phillips, Torx, Pozidriv, Hex, Robertson, etc.)
     
   • Thread type (wood, self-tapping, machine thread)
   • Shank, tip, and thread design for different materials
   • Material & coatings (stainless steel, zinc-plated, hardened steel)
     
3. Screwdriver Bit Types & Applications: 
   A critical section covering all common bit types as well as learning about shank type, bit length and bit holder quality for:
   
   • Phillips (PH)
     
   • Pozidriv (PZ)
   • Torx (T / TX)
   • Hex / Allen
   • Robertson (Square / SQ)
   • Slotted
   • Specialty Bits
4. Tool Selection: Matching Tools to Tasks: 
   Training includes proper tool choice for efficiency:
   
   • Manual Screwdrivers
     
   • Drill Drivers
     
   • Impact Drivers
     
5. Understanding Torque & Clutch Control:
   
   • What torque is and how it affects screw depth and strip-out prevention.
     
   • How clutch settings protect material and screw heads.
     
   • Proper torque for hard/softwoods, sheet metal, plastics.
   • Signs of overdriving vs. underdriving a screw.
     
6. Material-Based Screwdriving Techniques:
   • Wood
     • Pre-drilling to reduce splitting.
     • Countersinking for flush finishes.
       
     • Professional Trades and Graphic Arts
   • Metal
     • Using self-tapping or self-drilling screws.
       
     • Importance of correct RPM and lubrication.
       
   • Drywall
     • Depth adjustment and preventing paper tear
   • Plastic / Composites
     • Avoiding cracking with slow speed and correct bit choice.
       
7. Bit Wear, Maintenance & Lifespan:
   
   • Signs of worn or rounded bits.
     
   • Cleaning magnetised or debris-filled bits.
   • Keeping bits dry to prevent corrosion.
   • Difference in lifespan between standard and impact-rated bits.
     
8. Safety & Best Practices:
   
   • Inspecting bits and screws before use.
     
   • Ensure the bit is fully seated to avoid cam-out and injury.
     
   • Proper grip and body positioning to maintain control.
   • Hearing and eye protection when using power tools.
   • Avoiding cross-threading and stripping.
     
9. Troubleshooting Common Screwdriving Problems:
   
   • Cam-Out (bit slipping)
     
   • Stripped Screw Heads
   • Breaking Bits
   • Screws Not Driving Straight
     
10. Sales Training: Asking the Right Questions: 
    Equip sales teams with key questions to guide customers
11. Hands-On Demonstration:
    • Driving screws into wood, metal, and composite boards.
      
    • Demonstrating differences between PH, PZ, and Torx under load.
    • Torque setting exercises.
      
    • Identifying worn bits and stripped screws.
      
12. Certification:
    
    • Knowledge quiz
      
    • Practical screwdriving competency test.

Outcome: 

Participants will:

• Understand all major screw types, bit types, and applications.
• Be able to confidently select the correct bit and tool for any fastening job.
• Know how to prevent cam-out, stripped heads, and tool damage.
• Provide accurate, expert recommendations to customers or colleagues.
• Improve job efficiency, quality, and safety.