Training For Your New Job? How To Avoid Work-Related Injuries When Operating A CNC Machine
Now that you're working in a manufacturing plant, you may be operating a CNC machine—or computer numerical controlled machine. If you are, you'll need to follow some safety precautions. While CNC machines are among the safest pieces of industrial machinery you can operate, they still come with their own hazards and risks. Luckily, with the right safety precautions, you can reduce your risk of injury. Before you start operating your CNC machine, here are four safety tips you should follow.
Don't Try to Operate Machines You're Not Familiar With
When it comes to working in a machine shop, proper training is the best way to keep yourself safe. Because of that, it's important that you never try to operate machines that you're not familiar with. Even machines that seem similar to the ones that you usually operate may be just different enough to cause you harm. To protect yourself, and those around you, never operate a new machine unless you receive training on it first.
Give Your Machine a Thorough Inspection at the Start of Each Shift
At first glance, your CNC machine may look just fine. However, if you don't give it a thorough inspection, you might miss something. Unfortunately, when you're operating industrial machinery, one minor problem can lead to serious accidents and injuries. To prevent that, always give your machine a thorough inspection at the start of each shift. First make sure that the tools you'll be working with are damage-free. Second, make sure the tools are all set into the machine correctly. Third, make sure that the spindle is set correctly—right or left-handed operation. Once you've ensure that your machine is problem-free, you'll be ready to begin your workday.
Never Leave Your Machine When It's in Operation
One of the great things about CNC machines is that they're virtually self-operating. Once they're programmed, they'll perform their designated tasks without intervention. However, that doesn't mean you can leave your machine unattended. CNC machines may be self-operational, but accidents can still happen. To prevent accidents and ensure the safety of those around you, never leave your machine unattended when it's in operation.
Don't Operate Your Machine if You're Under the Weather
As stated in the previous section, CNC machines are self-operational. However, if you're not paying attention, you can be injured by the moving parts. Because of that risk, it's crucial that you remain alert at all times. If you're tired or sick, it's important that you let your supervisors know. Staying off the machine when you're feeling under the weather can help prevent work-related injuries.
To learn more about CNC machining, contact a company like MGM plastics.