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Using Work Equipment Safely

Do:

Don't:

Follow any Safe System of Work or other written instructions and any training provided.

Use work equipment unless you understand how to operate it safely.

Check that any guarding is in place and in position before working

Misuse or remove any guarding or other safety device.

'Safety check' equipment before use. Report defective equipment and ensure that it is taken out of use.

Use the equipment other than for its intended purpose.

Use the right equipment for the job.

Work on your own with dangerous machinery.

Ensure that your work does not affect others working in the vicinity.

Wear dangling chains, loose clothing, gloves (unless required) or rings or have long hair which could get caught up in moving parts.

Use risk assessment to determine what safeguards should be put into place to protect you from injury or ill health. Consider engineering controls over personal protective equipment.

Distract others that are using work equipment, particularly hazardous machinery.

Wear appropriate personal protective equipment.

Use any work equipment that you consider unsafe.

Ensure you have sufficient lighting and space in which to work safely – remove any obstructions and have a tidy working area before you start.

Clear blockages or clean a machine unless you have been trained to do so and you have safely isolated the power.

Ask for assistance if you need support.

Leave the area in an untidy state when you have finished.

Consider any additional risks that your work may introduce such as manual handling and working with or exposure to hazardous substances.

Do not operate machinery in the workshop if you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Some prescribed drugs can make you drowsy, so consider whether you are affected and inform your supervisor.