Campus Security

Safety and Health Plan
2001

Shop Safety

General

This policy applies to work areas that use machinery for wood-working, metal grinding, drilling etc.  NC-OSHA contains a number of safety standards that are directed toward the safety of employees who operate these type machines.

Point of Operation Guard

NC-OSHA requires that points of operation such as saw blades, grinding wheels, drive belts etc. be enclosed with a guard or shielded, to protect against operator contact.  Generally these protective features are provided with the machine and should not be removed.

First Aid Kits

It is recommended that all shop areas should be supplied with first aid kits.

Eye Protection

Cutting, grinding and drilling operations present a hazard of flying chips and pieces.  Eye protection such as goggles or safety glasses are always required when using these machines.  Signs should be posted “Eye Protection Required When Using This Machine.”

Electrical

All shop machinery must be properly grounded and the electrical disconnect or circuit breaker identified.  Also the electrical connection must be arranged so that activated machines do not automatically restart after power failures.

Dust Control

NC-OSHA currently does not classify wood dust as a toxic dust.  However, excessive accumulation of dust in the air and on surfaces is a serious fire hazard.  The toxicity of metal dust depends on the type of material being used in the machine.  As a general rule the need for special ventilation depends on the size of the shop and the frequency of use.  All shops should have a portable shop vac and be cleaned frequently.

Finish Coatings, Adhesives and Oil Base Paints

Each shop area is encouraged to minimize the stored quantity of flammables such as finishes, glues and oil base paints.  In no case shall the total amount on hand exceed 10 gallons.  Most flammable liquids can also present a health hazard due to inhalation of fumes if the work area is not properly ventilated.

© 2004 Lenoir-Rhyne College