Machinists play an important role in the manufacturing industry. From working on airplane parts to crafting cutting tools for straw holes, these hard-working men and women handle a variety of jobs that each come with specific hazards.
There are a few hazards that are common across many machining jobs. Understanding these hazards can help employers to ensure employees are safe, and it can help employees to ensure they do things as safely as possible.
Contact with chemicals
Chemicals can cause significant damage to the machinist’s skin. One particularly hazardous chemical is old and used coolant. When coolant is used and not changed as required, it’s possible that the particles and other chemicals that mix with the coolant can cause more harm to the skin.
Lifting heavy or bulky objects
Lifting heavy and bulky objects, such as oversized blocks of steel, can lead to serious back, shoulder and knee injuries. Using lifts, hoists and team lifting may be beneficial when moving these objects.
Moving equipment parts
The equipment that machinists use has a lot of moving components. Using these safely is critical, so machinists should ensure they understand every piece of machinery they use. They should also ensure they don’t have loose sleeves, hair, or jewelry that can become entangled in the moving parts.
Any machinist who suffers an injury should ensure they get medical care. Because this is a work-related injury, workers’ compensation is expected to cover the cost of that care. Other benefits may also be possible, so it’s critical that any injured machinist understands exactly what they’re due.
