Is there any real workable way to protect mechanics tools you are required to bring to your job?

Talking about times when you may be having to step away from the immediate work area for 10 minutes or so.

It's not practical to put everything away every time you have to step away, or go use the bathroom.

Obviously on days off they get locked in the toolboxes.

 

I cut their nuts off, keeps it to a minimum.

 

If you are working in an environment where you cannot trust your fellow employees not to steal from you, maybe you need to look for another job. Worked for 37 years in three different dealerships and retired with over 100k in tools. Hardly ever had problems with theft. Do you use one of the new small roll around two or three drawer chests? You can always drop the top on it when you need to step away.

 

Do you engrave your name on each and every tool, socket, wrench you have there?