EECS Student Handbook 2023/24
Section 3 - Preliminary information
3.8 Safety Rules for the Electronics Laboratory
Safety Rules for the Electronics Laboratory
INTRODUCTION
In industry and colleges, accidents are unfortunately all too common. They vary in degree from the trivial to, in exceptional circumstances, fatalities. In the main these accidents are caused by ignorance, horseplay or abuse of machinery and/or equipment.
THE LAW
The Health and Safety of People at Work is covered by a variety of Acts of Parliament, each Act containing a book of laws and regulations which govern the way in which work may be done in the workplace and the processes, operations and equipment employed to do that work.
EECS GENERAL LABORATORY RULES
1. Horseplay and unruly behaviour of any kind will not be tolerated at any time in the laboratories.
2. No eating, drinking or smoking is allowed at any time within the laboratories.
3. Machines, tools and equipment must be used in the correct manner and never misused.
4. Work areas must be left clean and tidy after use.
5. Equipment used must be left clean and tidy following appropriate shut down procedures.
6. Recommended protective equipment should be used as directed by operating procedures signify.
7. When operating machinery, loose jewellery (necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings, watches etc) must be removed or made safe.
8. Long hair must be restrained (either tied back, under a hat or hairnet or pinned back) at all times.
9. Machines and equipment must not be left unattended at any time during operation.
10. Machinery and equipment is to be operated by only one person at a time.
11. The operator's attention must not be distracted whilst the machine/equipment is in operation.
12. Do not lean on the machines/equipment whether in use or not.
13. After use, all tools/portable equipment must be stored in the correct location or returned to the technicians.
14. Machines, equipment and associated areas must be cleaned correctly after use.
15. When a machine or piece of equipment is operational, never attempt to touch any of the moving parts. In an emergency, power should be switched off first.
16. Any contamination of work surfaces or equipment must be dealt with promptly. If unsure, contact the Lab manager or safety officer. All breakages/damage must be reported immediately.
17. Exhaust/fume extractors must be used at all times when appropriate.
18. Any problems encountered with equipment must be reported immediately to the technician in charge or directly to the Lab manager. Do not walk away from the problem, leaving it to someone else.
19. Ensure that any general consumable which is running out is re-ordered. Do not leave it to someone else.
20. Help to keep the laboratories clean. Do not leave it to someone else.
