There are many dangers associated with working in a metal shop. Knowing and following basic safety rules will ensure a safe day in the workplace. Some safety rules are clearly stated by your employer, while others involve simply using your common sense.
Metal Shop Safety Rules
In the United States there are basic safety rules and guidelines that need to be followed and/or strictly adhered to in a metal shop. Some of these rules are enforced by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and are generally nationwide regulations for safety in the workplace. Other rules or guidelines may simply be set by your employer. Either way, for safety's sake it is important for you and your coworkers to follow these rules.
What to Wear
Most metal shops have a dress code that usually includes steel-toed shoes or boots, blue jeans and a tucked-in shirt. Depending on the danger of the environment you will be working in, you may be required to wear flame-retardant clothing as well as a hat. Whatever you are wearing, make sure it is not loose or baggy and has no items hanging out, such as the end of a belt, that can possibly get caught in a machine.
Personal Protective Equipment
OSHA requires that any additional PPE, or personal protective equipment, be supplied by the employer. The PPE can be anything from safety glasses to face-shields, gloves or earplugs. Any PPE that is issued should be worn in accordance with the instructions issued. Personal protection is one the key elements in employee safety.
Clearly Marked Danger Zones
Most machinery or dangerous areas are required by law to be clearly marked. It may be a sign simply stating, "Safety glasses required beyond this point," or a simple yellow line on the floor surrounding an area. Some machinery will also be clearly marked as a hazard and sometimes specifically to what the hazard is.
Paying Attention to Your Surroundings
Always knowing what is going on around you is an effective way of avoiding injuries. Some injuries in the workplace are not caused by the employee himself, but by a coworker. Also, consider the cleanliness of the shop. Sometimes a grease spot left uncleaned on the floor can turn into a serious injury. Keeping your workstation clean of unwanted debris or tools unnecessary to the operation at hand can greatly reduce the risk of injury.
First Aid
It is always best to know where the first-aid supplies are stored, in case of an emergency. In metal shops specifically, knowing where and use an eyewash station is crucial. Most well established shops will have people designated as first responders in case of an accident. It is best that you take the time to learn some first-aid procedures.
Evacuation
Almost all metal shops will have an emergency evacuation plan boldly visible throughout the shop. Knowing the fastest and safest way out of the shop to a safe area is primarily your responsibility.
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