If someone performs a job or task poorly or unsuccessfully, they will usually lay the blame on the quality of their equipment, or other such external factors, rather than take responsibility for their own failure. The football player blamed the overinflated ball for costing his team the game, but as they say, bad workers always blame their tools.

One who is able to navigate a complicated, nuanced, or difficult situation in order to gain an advantage for themselves. A figurative use of the phrase's literal meaning, "one who is able to work quickly." Promoted to manager in less than half a year? My, he's a fast worker, isn't he? But the actress is a fast worker, deftly maneuvering through the more emotionally charged material to give her character an immediate presence in the film.

Someone who tends to wear black clothing and, typically, is employed in a creative field. The term is formed on the model of "blue-collar" and "white-collar." Honestly, the black-collar workers employed by that designer really intimidate me—they just seem so cool!