Talking and tactile tools for building
Tools designed for building and repairing with low vision.
Summary
Whether you’re repairing, refurbishing, or creating from scratch, there is something particularly satisfying about completing a project yourself. Or perhaps you are working professionally, helping others to bring their visions to life. Whatever the job, there are basic tools used by every handyperson, and with simple additions, such as tactile markings, high contrast, and talking technology, they can be made more accessible for everyone.
Talking tape measures
Displaying up to five different units of measurement at a time, reading a precise measurement on a tape measure can be challenging. Talking tape measures can be useful, as they read your measurement aloud to you and can also remember the measurement for you. You can purchase a talking tape measure online or in-store from low vision aid retailers and they normally cost between $100 and $550.
Talking calculators
Talking calculators speak the buttons you press and your answer aloud, which can be particularly helpful when numbers such as 0 and 8 display similarly. They often can be used with headphones to give you privacy and clearer audio in loud spaces. Talking calculators can be purchased online or at a low vision aid store, typically costing around $60 to $70, while talking scientific and graphing calculators can cost over $1000.
Screen readers like VoiceOver, TalkBack, or Narrator, can also turn the pre-installed calculator app on your smartphone, tablet, or computer into a free, digital talking calculator you can take anywhere. To learn more, read our article on enabling your device’s screen reader.
Talking thermometers
Surface temperature can be important to know when using various materials, such as concrete or adhesives, as many products are only effective or safe within certain temperature ranges. Talking infrared thermometers can be a great tool to help read surface temperatures aloud and can be ordered online for around $75.
Always remember safety first
Before beginning any project, it is important to ensure you are wearing the correct personal protective equipment (PPE). The right PPE will be different for every job, but basic items like safety glasses and protective gloves are always a good idea. For bigger jobs, consider if other PPE such as hearing protection, face masks, or bodily protection like a hard hat or back supports might also be necessary.
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