Lathe safety time!

Here’s some safety tips I’ve picked up over the years working in manufacturing (and I did look up a few), but I’m sure I haven’t covered them all.

So, if you’re a seasoned machinist, I invite you to add to this list so others can benefit from our community!

✅ Chuck Key Caution:
Never leave the chuck key in the chuck when starting the lathe. This seemingly simple mistake can lead to severe accidents, even causing damage to property like roofs.

✅ Clothing Awareness:
Avoid wearing loose clothing and always roll up those sleeves. Loose attire can pose a serious entanglement risk during lathe operations.

✅ Workpiece Security:
Ensure the workpiece is securely held by the chuck, especially when not using a tailstock. Leaving it hanging out can lead to unpredictable consequences.

✅ Tool Placement:
Keep the tool within the recommended distance from the tool post. Having it too far out can compromise stability and safety during the machining process.

✅ Swarf Handling:
Never pick up swarf with bare hands. Swarf can be sharp and cause injuries if not handled with the proper tools.

✅ Oil Spill Prevention:
Avoid leaving oil on the floor near the lathe. A slippery floor can lead to accidents, compromising both safety and machine integrity.

✅ PPE Mandate:
Always use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including safety glasses and gloves, to safeguard against potential hazards.

✅ Hydraulic Oil Leaks:
Do not use your hands to detect hydraulic oil leaks. Utilize proper tools and equipment for inspection.

✅ Chuck Stoppage:
Refrain from using your hands to stop the chuck after switching off the lathe. Opt for the appropriate controls to ensure a safe shutdown.

✅ Hair Safety:
Tie back long loose hair when working near the lathe to prevent entanglement in moving parts.

✅ Tool Sharpness:
Use sharp tools for cutting. Dull tools not only compromise efficiency but also pose safety risks during machining.

✅ Positioning Caution:
Never stand directly over the chuck. Always stand to the side to minimize the risk of injury in case of an unexpected event.

✅ Equipment Inspection:
Before using a lathe that someone else has operated, perform a thorough inspection to ensure it’s in optimal working condition.

✅ Speeds and Feeds:
Always use the correct speeds and feeds for the task at hand. When in doubt, seek guidance to prevent unnecessary risks.

✅ Emergency Stop Awareness:
Never forget the location of the emergency stop. Being aware of its position is crucial for prompt response in case of unforeseen circumstances.