Starting A New Job Working With Metal Fabrication? How To Ensure Your Safety On The Job

If you're about to start a new job, it's important that you keep your safety at the forefront of your thoughts. This is particularly true if you're going to be working with metal fabrication. This is one career where you don't want to cut corners, or take your safety for granted. The equipment you'll be working with can cause serious injuries if not handled properly. Not to mention the injuries you can receive if you don't handle the metal sheets properly. To make sure you protect yourself from workplace injuries, here are four safety steps you should take as soon as you begin your new job.

Get the Training You Need

When it comes to working with metal fabrication, it's crucial that you get the proper training. Most companies will provide on-the-job training for all new employees, especially those who will be working with the metal fabrication equipment. It's important that you pay attention to the training, and take notes on what you've learned. It's also important that you ask questions when you don't understand an aspect of the training. Each time you begin using new equipment, or your responsibilities change, be sure to request additional training.

Know the Proper Usage of the Tools You'll Use

You're going to be working with a variety of fabrication tools, and each one will have its own operating procedures. Be sure you know the proper usage for each tool you'll be using, including the safety protocol for working with equipment malfunctions. Knowing your tools, and understanding the safety protocol, will allow you to react quickly to emergency situations.

Inspect Your Tools at the Start of Each Shift

When you start working with your metal fabrication equipment, you'll need to conduct a safety inspection at the start of each shift. Giving your equipment a thorough inspection before you begin your day will allow you to catch problems that could pose a serious risk to you, or the workers around you. If you notice a problem, even if it appears minor, you should bring it to the attention of your shop foreman as soon as possible. Don't use that piece of equipment until it's been signed off on.

Don't Shortchange Yourself on the Safety Gear

When it comes to metal fabrication, you're only as safe as the gear you're wearing. Before you start your new job, make sure you have all the safety gear you'll need, including safety goggles, steel-toed boots, heavy-duty gloves, and a breathing apparatus. You'll need the breathing apparatus when working with toxic fumes, which can result during metal fabrication.

Contact a fabrication company, like Varitronics Sheet Metal Fab, for more information.


Share