What action should be taken if a tool is found to be defective?

The appropriate action to take if a tool is found to be defective is to notify the instructor immediately. This is crucial for ensuring safety in the workshop environment. A defective tool can pose serious hazards not just to the individual using it, but also to others in the vicinity. By informing the instructor, they can assess the situation and decide on the appropriate steps to either repair or replace the tool. This action helps maintain a safe and productive workspace, as it prevents continued use of a potentially dangerous tool.

Additionally, storing a defective tool in a safe location could lead to it being forgotten, which increases the risk of someone else unknowingly using it later. Using the tool only under supervision does not adequately mitigate the risks associated with a defect, as the tool can still cause accidents or injuries even when under observation. Attempting to fix the tool yourself might result in further complications, as untrained individuals may not have the necessary skills to address the defect properly, potentially leading to injury. Therefore, reporting the issue to an authority figure is the best practice for handling defective tools in a safe manner.