This is the time of year when many members spend their time in their shop or garage working on cars or car parts. involves the use of tools and chemicals.
Using tools, especially power tools present risks. when the tool slips. Power tools can do a lot more damage! Power shears and cutters are just as dangerous.
Hand tool injuries are usually limited to skinned knuckles and small cuts.
Power saws can remove fingers or other body parts very quickly.
Reading, and following the instructions including using the safety guards are essential to safe operation.
Chemicals can also cause serious injuries and health problems. Although short-term exposure to most household chemicals should not cause long-term problems, knowing the potential hazards is important. Do you know what to do in case of chemical ingestion? Some chemicals should be eliminated as soon as possible by vomiting. Others require an antidote.
Knowing which is which and what the antidote is can save a lot of suffering.
Industrial strength products are considerably more dangerous. Companies are required to provide all safety information
regarding the safe use and handling of all products. This includes the use of protective clothing, respirators gloves or whatever is required to protect the user and anyone in the immediate area.
Read the labels on the products you are using. If warnings are not printed on the label find the proper first aid procedure to deal with accidental ingestion or excessive exposure. A few minutes spent finding the information before you need it can save a lot of pain! Keep the information handy along with the first aid kit in your shop.
In other words “ KNOW WHAT YOU ARE WORKING WITH AND HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF”
