First off, the author would like to apologize for not getting last week's out! There was a bit of a queuing/drafting error on my part but things are sorted out! Now it will just have to be DOUBLE the safety today!
This weekend went very well for our team, as 494 was runners up for the Industrial Design Award, so now we have the yellow helmet pin! Wahoo!
Without further ado, here are safety tips for working with hand AND power tools:
First and foremost, you should actually use a tool for it's intended purpose. A screwdriver is NOT a chisel, the end of a wrench is NOT a hammer so don't use them that way! When you do this, not only is it less effective but unsafe. Tools are more likely to break or fly off.
That being said, also make sure you are using the right size/type of your tool. Use the proper screw driver tip, match the right kind of hammer to your job, your wrench needs to properly fit the nut...you get the ideas!
Get rid of loose/partially broken tools. They're more prone to breaking off and causing injury to yourself or someone else.
Keep sharp objects directed away from where people might walk past them. If possible, put a cover over them when you're done using them!
Keep your tools in top condition! Sharpen them as needed, dull ones are actually more dangerous than correctly sharpened ones!
Cut/grind/saw in a direction away from your body
No matter how small/light the tool is, always pass them to your team mates, never toss them.
Make turning the safety on/off a second nature. Power tool safety begins with making sure your tool is on (or off) when it should be.
Use clamps to free up your hands as much as possible, the further away you can be from a running blade, the better!
Never be afraid to ask for help from a teammate when you're taking on a bigger task. It's better to just do one job instead of juggling several at a time!
Make sure the power switch is turned off before you unplug a power tool.
Keep power tools away from potentially dangerous liquids or anything flammable .
Never yank a cord when you're unplugging a power tool.
Make sure to wear the correct Personal Protective Equipment. Safety glasses, no loose clothing no jewelry, hair tied back, close- toe shoes...you know the drill!
Keep your tools well maintained, clean, sharpened, and stored away properly.
Never use tools if you're sick, tired, or distracted. Be awake and alert when you're working to prevent mistakes!
Keep your work area safe, clean, and organized.
Make sure your work area is well-lit and free from potential hazards (debris, open bottles of Coke, etc.)
Never rush what you're doing and think ahead! Nothing is a race, so be smart and think about what you're doing.
Keep a firm grip with your hands, if you don't think you can control a tool as well as you should then don't use it.
That covers it for this week's edition of Safety Sunday! See you at the Michigan State Championships next week!
blakekathryn
yousharknotpass
areudirty
vaporwave
izzy806
kianamaiart
2087
andulkaphoto