Safe work habits

• Use the right PPE (personal protection equipment) for the job
• Avoid any 'horseplay in the workshop
• Never run in the room, always walk.
• Follow your teacher's instructions.
• Ask if you're not sure about something.
• Keep your mind on the work.
• Avoid distractions.
• Work at comfortable pace, don't rush. Remember it is not a race.
• Stop if you get tired.
• Use the right tool for the job.
• Never force a tool.

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Dust Mask

Use: prevents the inhalation of low levels of dust such as: dust from abrasive sanding: general sweeping dust; handling non hazardous powders.

Dust masks are inexpensive, disposable and are supplied in packs with one size fitting everyone: each has a nose clip, which fastens over the nose to prevent dust being inhaled. 

Respirator

Use: prevents the inhalation of dust and toxic fumes, including cellulose spray, paints, glues and solvents.

A full-face respirator with changeable filter is used while spraying or sanding to prevent dust and fumes being inhaled into your lungs.

PVC apron

Use: protect your clothes and skin from chemicals. It will also reduce the risk of dust fibres transferring from clothing onto the surface of work during finishing.

 Earmuffs or earplugs

Use: protects your ears from excessive noise and long-term damage whenever you use sanders and other power or machine tools or generally any task which will be noisy.

These soft-padded protectors filter out the damaging noise, but allow you to hear voices and can be adjusted to fit most heads.

Gloves

Use: protect your hands when working with rough materials, sharp edges or cleaning up. PVC gloves are available and are used to protect your hands when using stains, preservatives, finishes and toxic chemicals.

Safety glasses/goggles/face shield (visor)

Use: protects your eyes when driving nails into masonry: when using fixed machinery, the lathe or portable electric tools; when sanding, welding or when spraying any harmful liquid that might splash into your eyes.

Safety glasses

These slip-on spectacles are light, comfortable and fit snugly over prescription glasses for good general protection.

High-impact goggles

These are soft, clear and comfortable, can be worn with prescription glasses and are available with permanent anti-mist protection.

Face shield visor

For full protection, use a face shield visor with impact- resistant shield and chemical-resistant brow guard. This is particularly suited to lathe work because it will give full protection to your face.

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 Clothing

Some simple rules to remember in relation to your clothing:

Do not wear anything which could get caught in the moving parts of the tool. For example:

• Loose clothing,
• gloves,
• neckties
• Jewellery (rings, chains, watches, etc).

Tie back long hair or wear a protective hair covering to contain it.

Keep ties tucked into jumpers.

Strong footwear should be worn to protect your feet in case something is dropped on them.

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