Lab Safety Guide - Chapter 8 - Machine Shop Safety

GENERAL SAFETY FOR MACHINE SHOP SAFETY     (Top)

Following a few basic safety procedures will assure a hazard-free experience for you and others working in the shop. Ask your supervisor to assist you in starting up equipment and in fabrication and modifications of existing equipment.

SAFETY RULES     (Top)

1. Safety glasses with side shields are required to be worn in the shop area at all times. Full face shields, welding goggles, welding masks and fixed safety shields on shop equipment are also available in the shop and must be used as the job at hand requires. Face shields do not provide unlimited protection from flying objects and splashes. Face shields must be worn with one of the following eye protective devices; a) Safety glasses or goggles where impact hazard exits. b) proper splash goggles where chemical splash hazard exists.

2. Remove rings, watches, bracelets, pendants and neckties, which may be caught in moving machinery. Roll up your long sleeves and secure long hair for the same reason.

3. No shorts or open-toed shoes are permitted.

4. Do not operate ANY shop equipment unless you are authorized to do so by the departmental safety personnel. If you are uncertain of any shop procedure, ask the your supervisor for assistance.

5. Never work alone in the machine shop. Always bring a colleague along to help you in case of injury. Report all injuries (and near misses), no matter how small, to departmental safety personnel.

6. Always clean up the work area before you leave.

7. The use of extension cords is prohibited.

8. Never use compressed air to remove particles from clothing.

9. Compressed air used for cleaning work pieces must be regulated to 30 psi or less. Use the proper safety nozzle.