General Machine Shop Safety

Ensuring a safe work environment is essential in any setting, especially in a potentially hazardous space like a machine shop. The key to mitigating risks lies in implementing effective hazard control measures. By addressing potential dangers proactively, we can protect ourselves and others from accidents and injuries. Hazard controls can be achieved through 3 approaches:

1. Engineering Controls: Implementing safety measures directly into the design of the machines to minimize risks. Examples can include the installation of emergency stop mechanisms and designing machines with enhanced ergonomic features to reduce the risk of strain or injury.
2. Administrative Controls: Setting up proper policies and procedures to ensure everyone follows safety guidelines. Examples can include the development of policies and procedures that outline best practices and safe work methods. Establishing a machine sign-off so only qualified individuals can operate machinery. 
3. Personal Protective Equipment: Equips workers with the necessary equipment to add an extra layer of protection. Examples can include safety glasses, face shields, and safety boots.

Here is a general list of machine shop safety precautions. Each machine will have a comprehensive safety chapter.

1. Canadian Standards Association (CSA) approved steel toe boots and safety glasses must be worn at ALL TIMES.
2. Hearing protection is always recommended but must be worn when noise levels surpass 85 decibels.  
3. Gloves should never be worn while operating rotating equipment.
4. All rings, watches, and jewelry must be removed
5. Long hair must be tied back or put in a hair net.
6. No loose clothing is permitted.
7. Always keep hands and other body parts a safe distance away from moving machine parts, workpieces, and cutters.
8. Always use manufacturer-supplied guards or safety mechanisms. Do not remove or disable them.
9. Only operate machines if authorized to do so by the policy and procedures in place.
10. Never use compressed air to clean the machine, part, or yourself.
11. Concentrate on the work and do not talk while operating any machinery. 

Please be aware that local and federal occupational health and safety laws may differ depending on jurisdiction. Ensure that you comply with your local laws and regulations. The Alberta Occupational Health and Safety Act can be found here.