LINK(R) Tools Represent 'Best Practice' to Insure FME and Improved Maintenance at Nuclear Facilities

CHICAGO, May 31, 2005 -- The search to insure Foreign Materials Exclusions (FME in nuclear power plants and generating stations has resulted in the widespread adoption of LINK Tools as a solution at multiple facilities in the United States and Canada.

The LINK patented QUICK LOCK(TM) technology guarantees no dropped sockets or tool separations. That's a key factor in maintaining the safety and continuity in operating machinery associated with nuclear power plants. A single dropped socket can result in a shutdown or a costly delay...events that should be avoided at all costs. The simplicity of the tools is such that they are easy to use and extremely effective; therefore, according to one industry training specialist, extensive training is not a necessity.

According to LINK Tools president, John Davidson, "LINK Tools represent 'best practice' and are increasingly being employed throughout power generator plants in general, and nuclear, in particular. We are pleased, but not surprised, because of our previous experiences with major airline and nuclear submarine clients. Those industries also place a major premium on FME and experience some of the same drawbacks such as tight working spaces and reduced visibility," Davidson added.

LINK Tools were the first hand tools to ever receive certification documentation regarding their ability to stay attached to each other from hand-to-work during use and their ability to get to hard to reach areas or bolts. Those virtues were specifically among other areas of improved performance cited during independently conducted working field tests. TUV, Europe's premier licensing organization conducted the study and added that "the tools clearly showed a significant improvement in the task performance of the drive tool system compared to conventional systems."

LINK Tools are the world's only hand tools to receive a "Q-Mark" from TUV. Wherever the "Q-Mark" is awarded, it signifies that a product has met standards of superior productivity and versatility. The "Q-Mark" was also awarded to LINK Tools for ergonomic excellence because of the tools ability to reduce chronic body strain often found with traditional tools which require increased stretching and bending.

LINK Tools are available in all drive sizes up to 3/4 inches. Sets of LINK Tools come in convenient and durable carrying cases. All LINK Tools can also be purchased individually. To obtain a catalogue or to view the complete line, go to www-link-tools.com or call 1-888-433-4234.

Based in Chicago, Illinois, LINK Tools International (U.S.A.), Inc. is the global leader in high efficiency mechanics' hand tools. LINK(R) and quick- lock(TM) are registered trademarks of LINK Tools International (U.S.A.), Inc.

NOTE TO EDITORS: Electronic photos available