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Working with machines

You are only permitted to work with machines if you have the required expertise. Read the instructions carefully and wear the required personal protection equipment.

How do I work safely with machines?

Each piece of equipment should have a manual that states how you must work safely and what to do in the case of an emergency. Read the manual carefully and obey the safety rules.

A few general rules:

  • Are you using the machine for the first time? Then ask permission from your supervisor.
  • Before you start, make sure you know where the emergency stop button is.
  • Keep the space around the machines clean, tidy and free of obstacles.
  • Moving machine parts (axles, wires, cogwheels, etc.) must be shielded off with guards.
  • During repairs and when replacing parts switch the machine off in such a way that it cannot accidentally be switched on again.
  • Never carry out maintenance on machines with moving parts.
  • Always use clamps when drilling in a piece.
  • Do not remove metal fragments by hand but instead use a angle pick hook.
  • Never use a compressed air pistel to clean machines and their parts but use a brush instead; loose metal splinters are dangerous and an air pistel can cause hearing damage.
  • For grinding machines, the grinding stone must be sufficiently shielded and the space between the support and stone must be at least 3 mm.
  • Report malfunctions and defects immediately to your supervisor even if you can solve the problem yourself.

Is the machine safe?

Machines have a CE marking when purchased. Are they safe then?

A CE marking is solely a test from the manufacturer.
For the user it is important to know that:

  • the machine is placed in a safe environment;
  • the machine is properly maintained;
  • the machine is used for the purpose it was intended for;
  • the work is performed in accordance with the instructions for use;
  • for modified and self-assembled equipment and machines a risk analysis needs to be carried out; ask your supervisor or health & safety coordinator about this.

Which personal protection equipment should I use at my work?

Wearing personal protection equipment increases your safety. The health & safety coordinator can advise you about this.

A few regulations concerning personal safety:

  • Wear good-fitting (work) clothing.
  • Do not wear loose pieces of clothing (tie, belt, jewellery).
  • Protect long hair from moving parts (e.g. from lathes, drilling or milling machines).
  • Wear solid and closed footwear in mechanical workshops workplace (no trainers or sandals); you can obtain safety shoes from your supervisor or your health & safety coordinator.
  • Always wear safety goggles when working in a mechanical workshop.
  • Use the eye protection provided on the polishing machine in addition to the safety goggles.
  • Wear ear protection in the case of bothersome or harmful noise.
Confidental Infomation