General Agricultural Mechanics Laboratory Safety Highlighted Notes

Never leave power equipment “running” while unattended. A piece of equipment such as this sander becomes dangerous to all when left running.

Know the location and use of all fire equipment in the laboratory.

Pay attention to what you are doing at all times.

Avoid loud talking and shouting, which are not allowed in the laboratory.

Do not run in the laboratory! This is what a set of sawhorses might look like just before you hit them after tripping because you ran in the shop!!

Operate power equipment only on a one student at a time basis.

Wear proper clothing in the mechanics laboratory : a. No loose clothing, loose jewelry, or unsecured long hair b. No open heel or open toe shoes will be allowed. c. Eye protection is required at all times. d. Special eye, face and ear protection is required when doing certain jobs.

Wear safety glasses or Goggles (Z-87 logo or higher) at all times while in the mechanics laboratory and in other areas specified by the instructor, unless other special eye and face protection is required.

Use guards and safety devices at all times. Guards, fences and push sticks can be seen on this table saw.

Turn off power equipment immediately after the job is completed. A drill press left running can be very dangerous to those working in the shop.

Avoid carelessness and/or “horseplay” which will not be tolerated.

Under the Influence Discourage students under the influence of drugs/alcohol to not work with power tools and equipment. Notify the instructor of students under the influence! JUST SAY NO

Notify instructor immediately in case of: 1. Fire 2. Injury 3. Accident 4. Defective tools or equipment, 5. or Any prevailing safety hazard.

Use only machines on which your are certified. You become certified once you have taken and passed your written shop safety test – Remember you must score a 100 to pass!

Safety check power equipment before putting it into operation. This is a good example of what a safe table saw should look like.

Avoiding laying tools or materials in walkways.

Be sure you are familiar with all controls (buttons) before using power equipment.

Do not leave the laboratory unless you are given permission to do so by the instructor.

Review Questions 1. How many people are allowed to use a piece of equipment at one time? 2. Name one reason you should notify the instructor. 3. True or False. The laboratory color coding consists of: Red (Danger), Green (Safe), and Yellow (Caution). 4. Students should never ____ while working in the laboratory. 5. Name one of the places that need special protective equipment.

Agricultural Mechanics Laboratory Scenarios

Scenario #1 This ag mechanics lab has the main exit blocked by the ag trailer. The drill presses are set up by the vent and door. There is a stack of lumber by the drill presses. Scenario #2 In this ag mechanics lab, there are several working fire extinguishers stationed where everyone can see them. When not in use, the table saw is stored out of the way. However, the electric cord is frayed. All exits and pathways are clear from obstructions.

Agricultural Mechanics Laboratory Scenarios Scenario #3 There is one fire extinguisher, but it is obstructed by a stack of lumber. There is no fire at this time. Scenario #4 The safety glass cabinet is open and there are several glasses still out on the tables. You are the last person to get to the safety glass cabinet.

Agricultural Mechanics Laboratory Scenarios Scenario #5 Several classes were in the mechanics laboratory before yours and there are brooms and other items in the floor. Scenario #6 There are students using equipment not the way instructed. The equipment is now broken and the students have walked away.

Agricultural Mechanics Laboratory Scenarios Scenario #7 You are using a palm sander and the sandpaper comes off in the process. Scenario #8 There are plenty of students in the laboratory and you notice there is a lot of loud talking. You continue to work but you notice your work is not matching everyone else’s.