Shop Safety Rules
EHS wants to ensure that all employees and students who work in machine shops have the basic training to keep themselves and their colleagues safe. Please keep these rules in mind and take our OH 500 Shop Safety online training.
- Never work alone. Follow your shop’s after-hours policy.
- Never use machinery without the approval of the supervisor and completion of training.
- Never use damaged or malfunctioning equipment.
- Never talk to or touch the machine operator.
- Never allow student use of power machinery without the shop supervisor or a monitor present. Undergraduates must check in with monitor upon arrival.
- Never wear loose clothing in the shop—including ties, scarves, jewelry, and loose sleeves. No open-toed shoes or short pants allowed in the shop.
- Never use a cell phone or personal music player. Store them at the entrance to the shop prior to working. Loud music is prohibited.
- Never work if you are tired. Take frequent breaks to stay alert.
- Never use compressed air greater than 30 psi pressure for cleaning equipment. Never use compressed air to clean skin or clothing.
- Always complete general and shop-specific training before using facility.
- Always understand your operation before you begin or ask the shop supervisor for help.
- Always wear personal protective equipment (PPE), including glasses or face protection.
- Always remove jewelry before working—including rings, necklaces, bracelets, and watches.
- Always secure long hair including beards.
- Always use all guards and shields. They must be secured prior to operating equipment.
- Always check wood for screws or other embedded metal objects.
- Always clear dust and debris before and after machine use.
- Always keep aisles, exits, and access to emergency equipment clear.
- Always immediately report all problems or concerns to the shop supervisor or monitor.
Shop supervisors and monitors may prohibit shop access or machinery use for any reason.
