|
At this point, you may be wondering what you can do to best promote safety in your shop. The answer is quite simple...you must develop an attitude of safety to guide you through your work. Safety must become an involuntary act — a habit — something that’s an automatic part of your routine. Just as an experienced pilot goes through a checklist prior to every flight, or you buckle your seat belt as soon as you get into the car, safety must become a part of your normal behavior, whether it’s in the air, on the road or in the shop.
Safety is a way of thinking. And the only way to develop safe-thinking habits is through repetition and constant vigilance, with safety in mind. Consider your other habit patterns — things you do without ever thinking about them — and make it a practice to incorporate safety among them.
There’s an old saying that applies very well to woodworking safety — “plan your work and work your plan”. Think ahead and visualize your activities . . . making safety an important part of all your woodworking projects. When planning what you want to do with a tool or a machine, think first about what you must prevent . . . such as a kick-back, snag or binding.
Realistically, think about what that sharp, spinning cutter can easily do to you if you don’t plan ahead and keep safety foremost in your mind. Deal with the dangers, but also consider what that cutter can do for you, in terms of bringing out the beauty that’s hidden deep inside every piece of wood.
Working with wood is a relaxing and rewarding way to spend your leisure time, and it can be even more enjoyable when you know that you’re working safely. Remember, you are more important than any woodworking project. With that in mind, virtually all woodworking accidents are preventable. “Safety is such a minor investment
when you consider the major benefits
it provides. It’s up to you!”
|
