Health Hazards: Ventilation is poor in the shop. We are continuously striving to make improvements with our equipment (within our budgets) and creating procedures for safe and alternate methods. Because this is mainly a wood working shop, the use of dust masks may help prevent some dust particles from getting in the nose.
Note; these are not for lung protection from vapors and fumes.
Paint solvents, adhesives, and welding produce toxic fumes. Do not spray paint in the shop. Go outside (and use brown paper to prevent over spray). For contact adhesive, we have a latex product that is water soluble. Spray adhesive and spray shoe dye are especially bad.
Welding is done with only the necessary people in the shop. Doors must be opened and the large exhaust fan on. Then a box fan is used near the work to pull the fumes from the work area. If possible, a welding fume respirator should be used. The bright blue glare from arc-welding is an eye hazard. A brief glance will not hurt, but do not stare at it.
Ladders: Working on ladders and scaffolds presents a potential for a fall. If you must use a ladder, always have someone there to foot and hold the bottom for you. Do not stand on the top or any steps the safety labels indicate. Before you get on a ladder, make sure that all four legs are firmly on the floor. Remember not to leave tools and hardware or anything heavy on top of a ladder. This will lead to the next person who moves the ladder getting hit in the head by a falling object. When you are working above on a ladder you must take extra precautions. You need to be aware of overhead scenery and lighting instruments and the electrical cable. Do not have loose items in pockets that may fall and whenever possible, tools should be attached to you. If you can't attach tools, extra precautions must be made to keep people below aware of you and your work.
Fire Safety:
Most of the materials in the shop are combustible.
Paint solvents etc., are highly flammable and are kept in a special cabinet.
Welding and grinding produce sparks. Paper, sawdust, oil, and all flammable items must be moved away from the work area during these procedures.
Know where the Fire Exits are in the shop.
Know where the fire extinguishers are and what types we have in the shop.
No smoking!!!!
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