Physics Department Machine Shop Safety Policy
General Shop Safety Rules
• Read the operators manual, or comparable literature, before using any equipment.
• Do not use any equipment unless you have been properly trained, certified and given permission by the shop supervisor.
• If you’re unsure about the safe operation of a tool or any aspect of a job – have an experienced user or the shop supervisor check the tool or work with which you are unfamiliar.
• Inspect equipment before each use for safety and damage.
• Never make any adjustments to a machine when it is in operation. Training is required before making adjustments
• Never use damaged equipment.
• Do not repair equipment unless you are trained.
• Only use equipment for the purpose for which it was designed.
• Always select the correct bit, cutter, blade or grinder for the material you are working with.
• Never use power tools before they have reached operating speed or while they are coming to a stop.
• Always secure work pieces with clamps or vices to keep them from moving.
• Keep hands away from cutting edges and moving parts.
• Never leave machines running unattended.
• Never operate machines while using personal electronic devices like cell phones or iPods.
• Any horseplay, misuse or neglect of the facility or the equipment will result in loss of use.
Cleanliness
• Work areas to be kept clean and uncluttered.
• To eliminate tripping and sliding, floors are to be kept free of objects, cords, scraps and oil.
• Equipment and tools are to be cleaned after use.
• Spilled liquids must be cleaned up immediately.
Compressed Air
• Compressed air must not be used to clean off clothing or your person.
• Compressed air is not to be directed at other people.
• Chip guarding will be used and eye protection will be worn when using compressed air.
Personal Protective Equipment
• When working with hazardous material, protective clothing is required.
• Protective clothing is chosen with the help of the shop supervisor or the ESH office.
• Loose clothing, such as, neckties, sweaters, flowing sleeves, lanyards, necklaces and other loose dandling jewelry, shall not be worn in the machine shop.
• Rings, bracelets, wristwatches, and related items should be removed prior to machine use.
• Do not use heavy work gloves in close proximity to moving machinery.
• Shorts or pants with cuffs should be avoided during shop use.
• Long hair must be tied back.
• Reusable protective clothing, such as work gloves, face shields and respirators, must be visually inspected before each use.
Eye Protection
• Safety glass or goggles must be worn in the shop.
• Ordinary prescription glasses are not designed to provide adequate protection against occupational hazards.
• Prescription safety glasses are recommended for employees who need corrected vision.
• Additional eye or face shield protection may be required for chemicals, ultraviolet light and machined material shavings.
Protective Gloves
• When working with electrical, chemical, temperature or mechanical/physical hazards, appropriate gloves are required.
Respirators
• The proper respirator must be worn as needed.
Hearing Protection
• Hearing protection is required as per OSHA standard 1910.95.
• OSHA’s permissible exposure limit (PEL) is 90 dBA for all workers for an 8-hour day.
If these rules are not followed, Machine Shop privileges will be taken away.