SAFETY MEASURES WHILE USING LATHE

All lathe operators must be constantly aware of the safety hazards that are associated with using the lathe and must know all safety precautions to avoid accidents and injuries. Carelessness and ignorance are two great menaces to personal safety. Other hazards can be mechanically related to working with the lathe, such as proper machine maintenance and setup.

Some important safety precautions to follow when using lathes are:
1. Correct dress is important, remove rings and watches, and roll sleeves above elbows.
2. Always stop the lathe before making adjustments.
3. Does not change spindle speeds until the lathe comes to a complete stop.
4. Handle sharp cutters, centers, and drills with care.
5. Remove chuck keys and wrenches before operating
6. Always wear protective eye protection.
7. Handle heavy chucks with care and protect the lathe ways with a block of wood when installing a chuck.
8. Know where the emergency stop is before operating the lathe.
9. Use pliers or a brush to remove chips and swarf, never your hands.
10. Never lean on the lathe.
11. Never lay tools directly on the lathe ways. If a separate table is not available, use a wide board with a cleat on each side to lay on the ways.
12. Keep tools overhang as short as possible.
13. Never attempt to measure work while it is turning.
14. Never file lathe work unless the file has a handle.
15. File left-handed if possible.
16. Protect the lathe ways when grinding or filing.
17. Use two hands when sanding the workpiece. Do not wrap sand paper or emery cloth around the workpiece.