UK 31 yr old starting an apprenticeship in Sept - any general advice, inc. tools I need + how to prep?

[Jackson888]

Hi everyone, so I'm changing careers from office / marketing and extremely excited to be starting my apprenticeship is September! Joining a local small business.

I have a few questions which would really help!

Firstly, what should I expect from my employer in terms of what they'll supply me with in terms of tools / petrol money etc?

Secondly what are the essential tools I need, what are the best brands and where can I get the best prices?

Finally, what's the best way I can start prepping? I'm ok with DIY but feel a bit like a dunce when it comes to knowing the basics! Maybe buying some sockets and practice wiring them up (with dead wires if course!)?

Any help will be greatly appreciated!

 

[Jackson888]

Welcome. Be prepared to take your time building a tool collection. You can do a lot with very few tools. VDE screwdrivers, cable shears, a decent knife, long nose and flat pliers, some cable strippers. You'll very quickly realise what the key items are. Don't go anywhere without a 2 pole tester and a lock off kit. Don't trust anyone else to have turned it off for you and don't trust anyone else not to turn it back on without warning!
By the way you aren't that far from me (Oswestry). Maybe in future we'll cross paths. I've just finished a nasty job for a church in Gwersllyt that would have been perfect for an apprentice to help with, every wall (and cable) had a liberal coating of black bitumen paint on it!
Anyway it's great to hear you have this opportunity. I hope it works out for you.

Check out "GSH Electrical" and John Ward on youtube btw, both give good solid information and advice.

Thanks Tim!

 

[Jackson888]

Search these on HSE website Download them, print them and learn them.

HSG85
HSR25
HSG107


Discover YOUR and your employer's definition of ".....All reasonable steps....."

Thanks!

 

[Jackson888]

Search these on HSE website Download them, print them and learn them.

HSG85
HSR25
HSG107


Discover YOUR and your employer's definition of ".....All reasonable steps....."

Thanks!