Yes I know you have probably heard it all before. But complacency in a work shop is something that we all all drift into at some time or another. If your day job involves working in a factory environment like mine, you will be very aware of the possible dangers around you, you will probably wear protective clothing such as head protection, ear protection, safety glasses, maybe a mask at times and steel toe cap safety boots.
But why is it when we get home we stroll into our own workshop wearing just a tee shirt, jeans and trainers? And sometimes even with a beer. Maybe you just do a little carving or veneering. But for most woodworkers the lure of bigger newer machines is ever tempting.
What we need to do is to remind ourselves of the possible dangers. Just a little nudge so that we don't forget. One very good way is to make a simple sign and place it so that you see it every time you enter your workshop.
Here's a good example, using a chop-saw. If you pulled the rotating blade of a chop-saw down and your fingers happened to be in the way it would take your fingers off. Just like that. Now if you got yourself a new job which involved using a chop-saw you would probably have to attend a three day safety course. Then spend several weeks using the machine under the supervision of an experienced person before they would let you any where near the chop saw on your own.
But, anyone with no training or experience can walk into their general hardware store/tool shop take out their credit card and purchase the biggest most powerful chop saw in the store!!
There are some basic rules.
1) Think about what you are going to do
2) Focus on what you are doing and stay sober
3) Don't rush. Take your time and make a proper job
4) Guards on machinery: Okay I know they are there for a reason. But people will and do take them off. If you really have to remove the guards then pay extra attention to what you are doing. Always replace guards after completing the task. Don't get lazy, this is where accidents will happen.
5) Keep your workshop clean and tidy. Well at least keep it tidy.
6) Always use eye and ear protection. Just get into the habit. You only have one pair of ears and one pair of eyes!!
7) If your machining MDF get a mask. This stuff is carcinogenic.
Well this list could go on, ventilation, first aid, maintaining your machinery, fire hazards. But the bottom line is always... common sense. You know what's right.
