Chapter 3
Machine Shop and Wood Shop Equipment
The Physics Department operates a Student Machine Shop, a Welding Shop, a Sheet Metal Shop, and a Woodworking Shop. All faculty, staff, and students have access to these facilities after taking a supervised shop safety course. Jack Pitts trains all individuals in the metal working areas and Fred Slock trains those who use the Wood Shop. Only after passing the requirements of these courses can a person operate the machinery. After successfully passing the shop courses, a picture ID is mounted on the Student Machine Shop wall. Also, a door access code is assigned, which will allow after-hours access to these facilities. It is advisable to never work alone around machinery. If you must work on a project after normal work hours, it is good safety practice to bring a friend who could make emergency phone calls and turn off the power to a machine that has trapped or injured you in some way. However, you are responsible for the safety of your safety observer. Note that safety glasses must be worn at all times by everyone in the shop, including your safety observer. If an unauthorized safety observer operates any machinery, the individual who allowed him or her into the machine shop will loose shop privileges. When working alone after-hours, doors must be unlocked to enable access for emergencies. Remember to lock the door before leaving!
When using the machine shop after normal working hours, it is your responsibility to insure that everyone working in the shop with you is authorized to use the equipment (i.e. they must have a photo posted on the machine shop authorization board) If an unauthorized individual refuses to leave the shop on your request, you are to call for assistance from the University Police at 5-COPS (5-2677).
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