*SHOP SAFETY* REMEMBERING THE BASICS

Maintenance personnel are exposed to several opportunities for injuries on a daily basis. Attention to detail is essential to avoid mishaps that can lead to injury and even death. Remembering the basics can assist you in performing your tasks injury free. Listed below are some reminders that you may find useful.

1. Keep your work area clean and orderly; neatly arrange equipment and material. Do not allow parts, metal, wires, scrap or other material to accumulate on the shop floors or in work areas. Place drink cups, cans, bottles, paper, lunch scraps, etc., in the proper containers.

2. Report every injury to your supervisor immediately, no matter how slight or insignificant the injury may seem.

3. If you are unsure about the safe operation or process of a job, request assistance from your supervisor.

4. Report any unsafe conditions to your supervisor immediately. Rely on your judgment and knowledge of safety to guide you.

5. Horseplay is forbidden. Do not disturb or interfere with other technicians when they are performing their job.

6. Be certain all safety guards are in place before operating any machine or equipment. Guards must be replaced as soon as repairs or servicing on a machine has been completed and before the machine is put into operation.

7. All equipment must be locked out prior to any repairs or maintenance. Never attempt to open the switch or operate any equipment that is under repair. Lockouts may only be removed by authorized personnel.

8. When a machine is de-energized for the purpose of changing setup or making minor adjustments, the operator must pull the switch controlling this machine. This will allow the equipment to come to a complete stop, enabling the operator to lock and tag out this machine. He must then push the start button to ensure the machine is definitely de-energized.

9. Never oil, remove guards or attempt to repair machinery while it is in motion. Do not climb on machinery while oiling or greasing. Repairs of machinery must only be made by authorized personnel or manufacturer’s representatives.

10. Do not use electrical equipment while standing on damp or wet surfaces or when your hands are wet.

11. Personal protective equipment (PPE) required in each shop must be worn as specified. Safety-toe shoes, bump hats, safety glasses with side shields, goggles, face shields, respirators and other forms of protective equipment or clothing are for employee protection. Steel-toe safety shoes should be the high-top style.

12. Wear clothes that are suitable for work. Long-sleeve shirts must be worn when burning, welding, grinding or performing other types of work where sparks or hot metal are present or where the work involves the use of acids or similar substances. Do not wear synthetic fabrics.

13. When lifting an object, lift with your legs and not with your back. Keep your back straight.

14. Observe "No Smoking" areas. Never smoke near compressed oxygen and gas cylinders, paint operations, flammable storage rooms, near gasoline or fuel stations, battery recharging stations or at any locations that contain a combustible or explosive atmosphere or condition.

15. If using a scaffold, it must be erected safely and contain a fully planked and secured floor. Handrail, midrail and toe boards must be used. Loose rope is not acceptable for a handrail. Use a ladder or other proper means for gaining access to the work areas. Secure scaffolds to prevent tipping.

16. If oil, grease, paint or any other slippery substance is discovered on the floor, wipe it up immediately to prevent a fall.

17. Flammable liquids such as gasoline, solvents, and thinners, must be stored in approved safety cans with flame arresters.

Simple as they may sound, making a mental note of these processes can help eliminate the risk of injury.

Harry L Kimball CDS CDT Owner River Valley Fleet Safety Consulting LLC Office: 479 272-2542 Visit us on our Web Page @ www.rivervalleyfsc.com or email us at [email protected].