General Workplace Practices & Ergonomics
You need to think and act in a safe way not only for yourself but for the safety of others. What answer demonstrates thinking and acting safely.
At work or on the job, you must stay alert and think safety at all times.
If you are alone and discover a fire at school or at work, what is the first thing you should do?
Find a fire extinguisher
What is the purpose of a Safety Data Sheet?
Safe handling and usage information
It gives you the name of the chemical you are using
It provides you with vital information of hazardous chemicals
It states if the product you are using is flammable or hazardous
Why should you always be careful when working with electrical wires or devices?
Electricity can cause electrocution, burns, fires, and electric shock
It is dangerous and you must recognize all workplace hazards
True or False: You can operate any power tool as long as you feel confident, even if you haven't received official training
False (you must be fully trained and have instructor permission before operating any power equipment)
What is the proper way to lift a heavy object?
Request help or use a mechanical lift.
If a chemical splashes into your eyes, how long must you flush them at the eyewash station?
At least 15 minutes.
Where is the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) book located in your shop?
Behind middle table, yellow binders
When working with electrical equipment, you should assess the cord and plug to be sure they are not frayed or have bent/broken prongs...
Always before using
What must you check regarding equipment before turning it on?
Ensure it is in good working order and that all safety guards are in place.
True or False: Spills on the shop floor or lab bench can wait to be cleaned up at the end of the day.
False (spills must be cleaned up immediately to prevent slips, falls, or chemical reactions).
What does the acronym P.A.S.S. stand for when operating a fire extinguisher?
Pull the pin, Aim at the base, Squeeze the handle, Sweep side-to-side.
What specific section on an SDS tells you what personal protective equipment (PPE) to wear?
Section 8: Exposure Controls/Personal Protection.
Why should you never use electrical equipment near water or with wet hands?
Water is a conductor of electricity and significantly increases the risk of severe shock or electrocution
What piece of PPE is required at all times when operating power equipment in the shop?
safety glasses/goggles
What should you always do with tools and equipment when you are finished using them?
Clean them off and put them away in their proper storage location.
Where is the primary emergency exit route located for your specific classroom or shop?
Main door
Name two types of information you can find on an SDS besides hazard identification.
First-aid measures, handling/storage procedures, firefighting measures, or physical properties.
What should you do if you notice an electrical cord has broken prongs or exposed wiring?
Immediately stop using it, tag/report it as damaged, and inform your instructor.
What should you do if a power machine starts making an unusual noise or stops working properly while in use?
Turn it off immediately, unplug it (if safe), and notify your instructor.
Why is loose clothing, dangling jewelry, or un-tied long hair hazardous in a shop or lab setting?
They can easily get caught in moving machine parts or catch fire near open flames.
What is the first thing you should do if someone receives a serious electrical shock in the lab?
Shut off the main power source before touching the person or attempting rescue.
Why should you never pour unused chemical waste back into its original container?
It can contaminate the pure chemical or cause an unintended chemical reaction
What is the purpose of a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlet in a lab or shop setting?
It quickly cuts off power if it detects an electrical imbalance, preventing fatal electrical shocks.
What is the "margin of safety" when using cutting tools or stationary power machinery?
Keeping hands and fingers a minimum specified distance (usually 4–6 inches) away from blades or moving parts.