# Record a return, review and actual restow

Receive unsuitable tools truthfully without making them ready automatically.

Source: https://help.smartfact.ai/manuals/toolcustody/returns-and-restow

Review edition: 25 October 2026

Roles: operator, supervisor

A physical return, condition review and restow are separate facts. A due or damaged tool can still be returned through the authorised path. Do not leave custody recorded as on loan merely because the tool is no longer eligible to issue.

## Receive the exact loan

At the station, use the return action and identify the exact asset and current loan. Compare it with the tool received. Record Observed condition, Actual destination and who returned it or the available return context.

For a normal review return, choose the approved active review position where the tool has actually been received. Confirm the physical declaration and choose Record the return. The loan is recorded returned and the tool awaits review. Inspection holds are retained; damaged or unknown condition adds its own barrier.

If no exact current loan is shown or the physical finding conflicts with custody, stop and ask the Supervisor. Do not return a different loan or pretend that an unexpected observation proves the earlier borrower returned it.

## Review condition and holds

The Supervisor opens Loans, holds and review and selects the actual asset. Use the returned-condition review action, inspect the physical tool and record a reason. Clear only the selected eligible condition or inspection holds whose basis has been resolved. Good condition does not automatically remove unrelated incidents or service problems.

Review and hold clearance do not themselves move the tool to the crib. Check that the saved review and remaining barriers match the physical decision.

## Restow where it actually goes

After the required review, choose the restow action at the station and select the active crib position where the tool is physically placed. Confirm and choose Record the restow. The current checks still require good condition, no unresolved barriers and current required qualification.

Where the approved direct-return policy permits it, a clean good return with suitable current evidence may offer Return to crib. Use it only when the combined physical receipt and placement have actually happened. Otherwise use the review path.

## Settle uncertainty

A lost return answer does not prove that the loan is still open. Reconcile the original action and inspect the asset before another command. Accepting service evidence alone never records a return, clears condition holds or restows the asset. Continue with [holds and discrepancies](/manuals/toolcustody/holds-and-discrepancies) when the return cannot be resolved normally.