Sheet Metal Safety Tips To Remember For Your New Shop
Are you looking to open up a new shop where sheet metal fabrication is on the table? If so, you're likely already working to secure the right equipment for the job, not to mention skilled employees who can help you meet the company's goals. But when it comes to sheet metal fabrication, don't forget the importance of maintaining a safe environment at all times. If this will be your first time working with sheet metal, here are some important safety tips to keep in mind.
Ensure Proper Ventilation to Keep Dust Out of the Air
When setting up your sheet metal production process, don't forget to include ventilation in the final setup. An open window is likely not enough, and you will want to invest in ventilation devices designed to circulate and remove dust from the air. When working with sheet metal, it's possible for tiny particles to come off of the metal and linger in the air. This sheet metal dust can be quite dangerous when breathed in by an employee. That's why you should also make sure all employees wear respiratory protection and that no one begins work in a room if the ventilation system is not working properly.
Your Final Product May Be Smooth But a Work in Progress Is Not
Your finalized product will typically have edges that have been smoothed out so they can be handled without issue. But while the fabrication process is taking place, you will likely have multiple sharp edges to contend with. Ensure all employees are wearing long sleeves and pants and gloves when possible. Your sheet metal fabrication area should have guards in place to make people think twice about coming in close to a sharp edge.
Remember That Metal Conducts Heat
Finally, if there is any amount of heat involved in your fabrication process, (or heat being used to produce something else nearby), keep in mind that metal conducts heat very easily. This means that metal exposed to a flame or any other heat source is going to be at least warm if not burning hot to the touch. Thermal protection gear, especially gloves, may be required in order to protect your employees from burns. Ensure that every employee is careful when picking up metal, giving it time to cool when necessary.
Sheet metal fabrication can be dangerous at times, but you can protect your employees and your company by putting some strict policies in place. If you don't yet feel you have everything you need to create a safe work environment, there's no shape in hiring an outside sheet metal expert to help you with your product. You might even be able to glean some best practices for safety so you are more prepared when you do open your own shop.
For more information, contact a sheet metal fabrication service.
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