The recent death of Michele Dufault, a Yale University astronomy and physics student, due to a chemistry lab lathe accident has caused several major publications to examine and reflect on workplace and school safety when it comes to heavy and dangerous machinery.  In Ms. Dufault’s case, she apparently died when her head became entagled in the chuck of the lathe, causing her hair to wrap around her neck and asphyxiate her.

Popular Mechanics recently published this quick primer about shop safety for its’ readers.  For a full and complete list of their highly helpful rules, visit the story.  However, here is a quick list of the highlights:

Work Shop Machine Safety

• Never wear loose clothing that can become entangled in the machine.
• Remove any jewelry that can become engaged in the machine such as rings, watches, and necklaces.
• Wear eye protection.
• Never operate a machine while distracted.

Work Shop Safety Practices

• Provide adequate and even light for your work station.
• Make sure all walking surfaces are nonslip and free of debris.
• Be sure the workplace is adequately heated, cooled, and ventilated.
• Provide fire extinguishers, first aid equipment, and any other safety tools in open and obvious places.

We hope that you find these tips helpful.

Ross Jurewitz is a San Diego personal injury attorney and the managing lawyer at the Jurewitz Law Group, a California law firm representing people injured in workplace accidents throughout the State.  For a free consultation or to order a copy of his free book, The Ten Biggest Mistakes that can Destroy Your California Accident Case, please call 888-233-5020.