Taps and are tools used to create screw threads, which is called threading. Many are cutting tools; others are forming tools. A tap is used to cut or form the female portion of the mating pair. A tap can be used to clean up a thread, which is called chasing. However, using an ordinary tap to clean threads will generally result in the removal of some material, which will result in looser and weaker threads. Because of this, threads are typically cleaned using special taps and dies made for this purpose, which are known as "chasers". Chasers are made of softer materials and are not capable of cutting new threads, however they are still tighter fitting than actual fasteners and are fluted like regular taps and dies (to provide a means for debris like dirt and rust to escape). One particularly common use is for automotive spark plug threads, which often suffer from corrosion and a build-up of carbon.

A tap can help stop the spread of infection and control by when an individual goes to the toilet it is important that they wash their hands using the hot water from the tape to rinse the germs away by killing them. Any dampness helps an remaining germs to survive, and if there’s enough water they multiply. It is important we encourage other individuals to wash their hands properly by reducing the chance of infections spreading. Good respiratory hygiene measures include using disposable paper tissues when sneezing, coughing and blowing your nose followed by disposing of any tissues and then washing your hands. These simple measures, plus not visiting a patient in hospital if you are unwell yourself, can make a big  difference and will help protect you, your family and those around you. Hand hygiene should be performed for between 15 seconds and 2 minutes depending on the level of hand hygiene being performing. Washing for longer than these times is not recommended as this ma damage the skin leading to increased shedding of skin scales