Sometimes a safety rule is repeated because it may be applicable in more than one area.

General Safety Precautions

1. Always wear SAFETY GLASSES in the shop.
2. Do not set up or operate any machinery unless an instructor is in the shop.
3. Do not operate any machine unless authorized to do so by an instructor or under an instructor's supervision.
4. Use the proper tool for the job. Many cuts in the shop occur because a wrench slips and a hand hits a sharp cutting tool.
5. Check tools before use to assure they are safe to use.
6. Do not leave tools or work on the table of a machine even if the machine is not running. Tools or work may fall off and cause a toe or foot injury.
7. Put tools away when not in use.
8. Place all scrap pieces in the correct containers.
9. Never handle chips with your hands or fingers. Chips are extremely sharp and can easily cause cuts.
10. Use a brush to remove chips -- not hands, fingers, or rags.
11. Never wear gloves or use rags to clean the workpiece or any part of a machine that is running. Rotating tools or parts can grab gloves and rags and pull you into the machine.
12. Never use compressed air to clean any machine.
13. Never use compressed air to clean your clothes or yourself.
14. If using compressed air to clean a part, point the air hose down and away from yourself and other persons.
15. Do not run in the shop; there should be no "fooling around" in the shop at any time. Don't be a "wise guy."
16. Get first aid immediately for any injury.
17. Get help for handling large, long, or heavy pieces of material or machine attachments.
18. Follow safe lifting practices; lift with your leg muscles, not your back. If you do not know how to lift safely, ask an instructor to show you.
19. Be sure you have sufficient light to see clearly. Check with an instructor if you do not have enough.
20. Aisles should be clear at all times to avoid tripping or other accidents.
21. Store materials in such a way that they cannot become tripping hazards.
22. Keep the floor free of oil, grease, or any other type of liquid. Clean up spilled liquids immediately; they are slipping hazards.
23. Loose clothing or long sleeves should not be worn in the shop. Machines can easily grab loose clothing in rotating parts.
24. All set-screws should be of the flush or recessed type. If they are not, move with caution when near them. Projecting set-screws are very dangerous because they may catch on sleeves or clothing.
25. Do not walk behind a person operating a machine; you may bump him/her by accident or startle them and cause an accident.