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Workshop safety

Overalls, safety boots, goggles or a face shield (grinding, drilling, welding), leather gloves and apron for hot work, welding helmet with the correct filter lens, and ear protection near noisy machines.

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  1. PDFWorkshop safety – Metal Technology and Design notes (ZIMSEC O Level)45.2 KB

Personal protection

Overalls, safety boots, goggles or a face shield (grinding, drilling, welding), leather gloves and apron for hot work, welding helmet with the correct filter lens, and ear protection near noisy machines.

General rules

  • No loose clothing, jewellery or long hair near machines.
  • Use machines only with permission and with guards in place.
  • Clamp work securely before drilling; never hold small pieces by hand.
  • Remove chuck keys before switching on.
  • Never use compressed air to clean clothes or skin.

Hot work

Treat all metal as hot; use tongs; keep a fire extinguisher and sand bucket nearby; store gas cylinders upright and chained; check hoses for leaks with soapy water, never a flame.

Burrs and swarf

Remove sharp burrs with a file; clear swarf with a brush, not your hands.

Exam tip: Link each safety rule to the hazard it prevents (e.g. goggles – flying particles when grinding).

Check yourself

  1. Why must the chuck key be removed before switching on a drill?
  2. How should gas welding hoses be tested for leaks?
  3. How should swarf be removed from a machine?
Show answers
  1. It would be thrown out at speed and could injure someone.
  2. With soapy water – bubbles show a leak (never a flame).
  3. With a brush (never bare hands or compressed air at people).
Next topicMetals, alloys and their properties

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