Safety for Lathe

CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF LATHES

Lathes are highly accurate machine tools designed to operate around the clock if properly operated and maintained. Lathes must be lubricated and checked for adjustment before operation. Improper lubrication or loose nuts and bolts can cause excessive wear and dangerous operating conditions.

The lathe ways are precision ground surfaces and must not be used as tables for other tools and should be kept clean of grit and dirt. The lead screw and gears should be checked frequently for any metal chips that could be lodged in the gearing mechanisms. Check each lathe prior to operation for any missing parts or broken shear pins. Refer to the operator's instructions before attempting to lift any lathe. Newly installed lathes or lathes that are transported in mobile vehicles should be properly leveled before any operation to prevent vibration and wobble. Any lathes that are transported out of a normal shop environment should be protected from dust, excessive heat, and very cold conditions. Change the lubricant frequently if working in dusty conditions. In hot working areas, use care to avoid overheating the motor or damaging any seals. Operate the lathe at slower speeds than normal when working in cold environments.

SAFETY

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:

Correct dress is important, remove rings and watches, roll sleeves above elbows,no gloves,wear goggles.


Always stop the lathe before making adjustments.


Do not change spindle speeds until the lathe comes to a complete stop.


Handle sharp cutters, centers, and drills with care.


Remove chuck keys and wrenches before operating


Always wear protective eye protection.


Handle heavy chucks with care and protect the lathe ways with a block of wood when installing a chuck.


Know where the emergency stop is before operating the lathe.


Use pliers or a brush to remove chips and swarf, never your hands.


Never lean on the lathe.


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.


Keep tools overhang as short as possible.


Never attempt to measure work while it is turning.


Never file lathe work unless the file has a handle.


File left-handed if possible.


Protect the lathe ways when grinding or filing.


Use two hands when sanding the workpiece. Do not wrap sand paper or emory cloth around the workpiece.