Safety should be a priority in any work environment, and this is especially true when it comes to working with powerful machines such as tumbling drums, food crushers, and other kinds of heavy duty industrial equipment. When used correctly and safely, industrial machinery can be huge benefit in terms of quality and productivity.
Unfortunately however, the improper use of machines and other kinds of industrial equipment is a common cause for work related injuries, some of which can be fatal. Regardless of what industry you work in, here are a few essential safety tips to keep in mind when working with machines and potentially dangerous equipment.
Training
If you haven’t received the proper training and instruction on how to use a particular shop machine, it’s best to leave the job to someone else. Without being properly trained or experienced in using a machine, you run the risk of causing serious injury to yourself and even your coworkers. If you feel as though you haven’t received enough training on how to use a particular machine, there’s no shame in asking for additional training. When it comes to safely using machines, it’s always better to be safe rather than sorry.
The right stuff
The use of certain industrial machines may require the operator to wear protective gear or equipment, such as eye protection or heat resistant clothing. Even if you’re experienced in using a particular machine, don’t cut corners by not wearing the required protective gear or clothing. In many industrial shops, machine operators must wear closed toe or steel toe boots for protection. Don’t consider this an option. There is simply no excuse not to wear the proper gear.
Don’t cut corners
Never cut corners when it comes to safely using an industrial machine, especially if that machine requires the use of guards. Machine guarding protects the operator and those in the immediate area from the danger of rotating parts, hot sparks, and flying pieces of debris. While it may take more time to make sure the machine is properly guarded, this is one step that should never be skipped over for the sake of time. The only way to work in a machine shop is to work safely.
