As the hardware tools encompasses a load of equipment, there are a number of quality control measures to ensure that proper and good quality tools are produced worldwide.

HARDWARE :

The ANSI and the BHMA in collaboration have set a number of quality standards. The quality tests for Butts and Hinges include weight tests, overload tests, friction tests.

In case of nuts, screws and bolts quality tests consist of tensile strength for the steel or metal used, groove definitions, weight testing and physical dimensions.

Locks and keys too have their own quality control methods which comprise of tests in the hardness of the metal, the key hole configuration etc.

HAND TOOLS :

The ISO is the biggest standard setter in this group. They have a total of nearly 150 Technical Committees (TC) which set standards for almost every aspect.

The TC 29 is a committee specifically for Small Tools. This committee is involved in drawing up standards for tools like cutters, grinders, hacksaw blades, and the attachments which are available for such similar equipment. These standards involve various tests on dimensions, characteristics of the cut, diameters, metal used, high speed steel groups etc.

POWER TOOLS :

Two committees extensively deal with the power tools. The TC 39 is designated for machine tools and TC 118 for the pneumatic tools, machines and equipment. The TC 39 deals with the speeds and feeds of a number of machine tools, it also has standards for the noise emission by the machine tools and the minimum safety requirements.

The TC 118 on the other hand is involved with more powerful tools. The sub committee TC 118/ SC 3 deals handles the power outputs and air consumption of such units, the vibration at the handles of all the tools like grinders, impact drills and so on, the tolerance of such gear and procedure, performance parameters as well as the allowed noise levels.

It is to be noted that most of the big producers of all kinds of hardware be it nuts and bolts, or the various hand tools, powered as well as unpowered ones, offer life time guaranties on their products. Thus it is always a good idea to go in for quality hardware as flawed tools pose major risks to the user.