Machine Shop Safety

Machine shops present unique hazards distinct from those in laboratories or other work environments. Drexel University establishes safety requirements for all faculty, professional staff, and students performing work activities in machine shops. The requirements of the plan meet and comply with all applicable university policies and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations.

Based on the processes, equipment, and materials being utilized within the machine shops, Environmental Health and Radiation Safety (EHRS) has determined the following personal protective equipment (PPE) and proper attire is required for all faculty, professional staff, students and visitors when working within these shops.

• Safety glasses with side shields
• Hearing protection when warranted. Contact EHRS to identify the correct hearing protection level. 
• All hair in any shape or form has the potential be caught-in rotating machinery. However, specific significance to long hair shall be recognized. Long hair must be restrained but should not be braided. If a braid is caught-in rotating machinery, all the hair will be pulled in. The use of proper body positioning, maintaining machinery safeguards, and staying within the point of operation and out of danger zones are the best course of action to avoid having hair caught-in any rotating machinery.
• No jewelry (dangling earrings, bracelets, watches, necklaces, etc.) shall be worn.
• No loose-fitting clothing. All shirts must be tucked in, and all sleeves must be pulled up past elbow.
• No hooded sweatshirts with pull strings.
• No ear buds or blue tooth devices are allowed within the shop and must not be used while working with equipment.
• Footwear must be closed top/toed.

EHRS may require additional PPE (e.g., work gloves, face shields, or Nomex coverings) depending on the task.

All personnel working in a machine shop must receive general awareness and site-specific training. EHRS provides annual general awareness training. Site specific training must be provided by the shop supervisor or a competent individual.