Which is one of the five inventory control techniques for identification?

• A. Burying items in a box
• B. Etching the inventory control number on the tool
• C. Counting in random order
• D. Writing numbers on a label with pencil

Answer: (B)

Durable identification methods are essential in inventory control because they keep track information attached to the item throughout its life. Etching the inventory control number on the tool creates a permanent, tamper-resistant mark that survives normal use, cleaning, and wear, so the ID stays with the item and is easy to verify during counts, audits, or when tools move between locations or workers.

Burying items in a box hides them and makes identification impossible during checks. Counting in random order doesn’t attach any ID to the item, so you can’t distinguish one tool from another. Writing numbers on a label with a pencil is unreliable because labels can fade, peel, or be erased, breaking the link between the item and its record.