Machine Safety Basics

Power tools and fabrication equipment can cause serious injuries. These guidelines apply to anyone using machines in the Workshop or Woodwork Area.

The Golden Rules

1. Never work alone on power tools. If you're using a machine that could injure you (circular saw, angle grinder, drill press), make sure at least one other person is in the space.
2. Wear appropriate PPE. See the table below.
3. Secure your workpiece. Never hold material by hand while cutting — use a clamp, vice, or jig.
4. Know how to stop the machine before you start it.
5. Inspect before use. Check for damaged blades, frayed cables, missing guards. If something looks wrong, don't use it and report it.

PPE requirements by task

Task	Eye protection	Ear protection	Dust mask	Gloves
Angle grinder	Required (face shield)	Required	Recommended	No*
Circular saw	Required	Required	Recommended	No*
Drill press	Required	Optional	Optional	No*
Belt sander	Required	Optional	Required	No*
Soldering	Optional (SMD work)	No	Recommended	No
Resin printing	Required	No	Required	Required (nitrile)

*Gloves are NOT worn when operating rotating machinery — they can catch and pull your hand into the machine. Use bare hands or grip tape.

PPE is available on the wall at the Workshop entrance. Return it to the hooks after use.

Induction requirements

Some equipment requires a brief one-on-one induction from an experienced member before first unsupervised use:

• Angle grinder — mandatory induction
• Circular saw — mandatory induction
• Lathe (if we ever get one) — mandatory induction
• Resin printer — mandatory induction (chemical safety)
• Laser cutter — mandatory induction (fire risk and materials)

To get inducted, post in #workshop on Slack saying what you need training on. Any experienced member or steward with the relevant skill can do the induction — it usually takes 15–20 minutes.

Using equipment without the required induction is a serious breach of house rules and may result in suspension of workshop access.

Working safely

• Read the manual for any unfamiliar tool. Physical manuals are in the drawer under the tool shelf; digital versions are in the shared folder linked on the network info page.
• Keep your work area clear. Clutter around a machine is a trip hazard and limits your movement if something goes wrong.
• Tie back long hair. Remove jewellery, scarves, loose clothing.
• Don't use tools when you're exhausted, rushing, or distracted. More accidents happen in the last 10 minutes of a session than any other time.
• When in doubt, stop. Ask someone.

After an incident

If someone is injured, follow the Emergency Procedures. After the immediate situation is handled, please report the incident to the board (even minor ones). We maintain an anonymous incident log to improve safety — what you report helps the next person.