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 shops.

• Safety glasses with side shields
• Hearing protection

Appropriate dress requirements include the following:

• 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 of 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, blue tooth devices, or cell phones are allowed within the shop and must not be used while working with equipment.
• Footwear must be closed top/toed.

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

All personnel must complete the University’s general awareness training prior to working in the machine shop. This training is required annually. The shop supervisor must provide site specific training to all personnel requiring access the machine shop.

Review the Laboratory Safety Manual [PDF] for additional details on machine shop safety.