Machinist

A machinist is a skilled worker who can set up and use machine tools to modify workpieces typically made of metal. These machine tools allow a machinist to perform operations such as turning, boring, milling, and grinding.

Their main duties include:

• Reading and interpreting technical drawings, charts, and specifications.
• Calculating dimensions and preparing sketches as necessary.
• Setting up and using the right machine tools for the job.
• Taking measurements to ensure accuracy of work (using tools such as micrometers and vernier callipers).
• Lifting and moving workpieces.
• Performing maintenance work on machine tools.
• Performing housekeeping to ensure a tidy workplace.

• Injuries resulting from the operation of metalworking machines, including cuts, crushing, amputations, pinches, burns, and being struck by projectiles.
• Noise from machine operation or within the machine shop that can result in auditory effects.
• Vibration that can cause health effects.
• Exposure to hazardous products, including metalworking fluids, which can result in health effects such as allergic reactions and contact dermatitis.
• Respiratory effects from exposure to chemicals, dust, fumes, and other hazards in the air.
• Pain, injury, or musculoskeletal disorders from physical overexertion and manual materials handling, including repetitive manual tasks, prolonged standing, heavy lifting, or working in awkward positions.
• Extended workdays or shift work based on demands (such as short turnaround projects).
• Stress from meeting work demands and deadlines, ensuring the accuracy of work, etc.
• Slips, trips, and falls from clutter, trailing cords, and spills.
• Workplace harassment or violence. 
• Heat-related illnesses, especially if ventilation is not adequate.

To mitigate these risks, machinists should:

• Ensure that the tools and machines are in good working order before use, including conducting inspections and verifying that regular maintenance has been completed.
• Use proper manual material handling (MMH) techniques when moving workpieces and other heavy items. If possible, get assistance from other workers or use mechanical aids (please refer to MMH - Mechanical Aids for Transporting Materials – I, MMH - Mechanical Aids for Transporting Materials - II, and MMH - Mechanical Aids: Levers and Rollers to learn more).
• Take breaks throughout the day, especially when work involves a lot of repetitive motions and awkward postures.
• Rotate tasks, if possible, to avoid using the same body parts repeatedly.
• Follow good ergonomic practices at all times, including when working in a standing position.
• Ensure that tools and machines are deenergized when taking breaks or after finishing work.
• Follow lockout/tagout procedures when maintaining or servicing machines.
• Stay hydrated if in a hot environment.
• Make sure that ventilation is appropriate to reduce the risks of heat stress and hazards in the air.
• Report all hazards and incidents to management.
• Participate in all health and safety training and education, including on topics such as the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS), safe work procedures, emergency response, etc. 
• Review the safety data sheet (SDS) of any hazardous products in the machine shop. 
• Do not wear loose clothing, jewellery, or other things that could get caught in machinery.
• Confine or otherwise avoid having loose long hair that could get caught in machinery.
• Practice good housekeeping and keep areas clear of clutter and slip hazards.
• Wear personal protective equipment (PPE) suitable to the task being completed. Refer to the safe work procedures, user manual, or a health and safety professional for guidance on appropriate PPE. PPE should be based on the hazards and may include:
  • Impact-resistant eye and face protectors 
  • Hearing protectors such as earplugs or earmuffs
  • Safety footwear that can provide protection from dropped objects, slips, and falls
  • Gloves with cut and chemical resistance (depends on hazards workers are exposed to) provided that the gloves do not pose a further hazard (such as loss of dexterity or being caught in moving machine parts)
  • High-visibility apparel to increase visibility, especially when vehicles operate in the machine shop
  • Headwear, if objects could hit the machinist’s head from the top or side
  • Respirator 

• Understand how to use all machines and use them as directed by the manufacturer.
• Follow safe work procedures and comply with all regulations.
• Never operate equipment when the guards are not in place.
• Never bypass safety interlocks.
• Understand the three rights of workers and exercise the right to refuse work if it is likely to result in harm. 
• Report any injury or illness immediately to the supervisor or manager.
• Report unsafe acts and unsafe conditions to the supervisor or manager.
• Know where the first aid equipment and first aiders are located and follow first aid procedures.
• Know the location of muster points and what to do in an emergency.
• Participate in the health and safety committee or as a representative.