Safe Work Procedure: Cutting on the Shear

Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER] Revision Date: [DATE] Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE] Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]

1. Scope

This Safe Work Procedure (SWP) outlines the necessary safety precautions and procedures to be followed when cutting materials using a shear. It applies to all workers who are required to operate or work in the vicinity of a shear. This procedure aims to minimize the risk of injury associated with the operation of the shear.

2. Definitions

Shear: A machine used to cut materials using a shearing action.

PPE: Personal Protective Equipment.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

• Ensure that all workers are adequately trained and competent to operate the shear.
• Conduct regular inspections of the shear to ensure it is in safe working condition.
• Enforce the use of required PPE.

3.2 Workers

• Follow all safety procedures outlined in this SWP.
• Use the correct PPE as specified in this SWP.
• Report any hazards or equipment malfunctions to the supervisor immediately.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

• Assist in the development and review of this SWP.
• Monitor compliance with this SWP.
• Investigate incidents and recommend corrective actions.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Sharp edges of materials	Cuts, lacerations	Wear appropriate gloves. Handle materials with care.
Moving parts of the shear	Amputation, crushing injuries	Ensure machine guards are in place and functioning. Keep hands clear of moving parts.
Material kickback	Impact injuries	Secure material properly before cutting. Use appropriate material supports.
Dust inhalation	Respiratory irritation, long-term lung damage	Provide sufficient ventilation for operations causing dust formation 3, 5, 6. Observe occupational exposure limits and minimize the risk of exposure 3, 5, 6. Wear a NIOSH/MSHA approved respirator if there is a risk of exposure to dust/fume at levels exceeding the exposure limits 4, 9, 14.
Noise	Hearing damage	Wear hearing protection if noise levels are high.
Ergonomic hazards (e.g. repetitive motions, awkward postures)	Musculoskeletal disorders	Use proper lifting techniques. Take breaks to reduce fatigue.

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Always use proper PPE [1].

• Safety Glasses/Goggles - Wear approved safety goggles 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 10, 13, 14 to protect eyes from flying debris and dust.
• Gloves - Wear suitable protective gloves 1, 4, 6, 10, 17, 20 to protect hands from sharp edges and cuts. Wear appropriate chemical resistant gloves 9, 13, 14.
• Hearing Protection - Use earplugs or earmuffs in noisy environments.
• Respiratory Protection - Use a NIOSH/MSHA approved respirator if there is a risk of exposure to dust/fume at levels exceeding the exposure limits 4, 9, 14.
• Work Clothing - Normal work clothing (long sleeved shirts and long pants) is recommended 1, 4, 6, 10, 20.

Inspect PPE before each use for damage. Replace damaged PPE immediately.

6. Equipment and Tools

• Shear - Use only shears that are in good working condition and have all safety guards in place.
• Material Supports - Use appropriate supports to hold materials in place during cutting.
• Measuring Tools - Use accurate measuring tools to ensure precise cuts.

Inspect all equipment before each use. Report any damaged or malfunctioning equipment to the supervisor.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Workers must be trained and competent in the safe operation of the shear.

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Conduct a pre-job briefing to discuss the task, potential hazards, and safety procedures.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

• Ensure the work area is clean, well-lit, and free of obstructions.
• Check that all safety guards are in place and functioning correctly.
• Verify that the shear is in good working condition.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Step 1: Preparation

• Ensure you have the correct PPE.
• Inspect the shear to ensure it is in good working order.
• Ensure the area is clear of obstructions and well lit.

Safety Considerations: Ensure all safety guards are in place and functioning.

Step 2: Material Handling

• Use work methods which minimize dust production 7, 12, 15.
• Measure and mark the material to be cut.
• Secure the material properly on the shear.

Safety Considerations: Wear gloves to protect against sharp edges. Ensure material is stable to prevent kickback.

Step 3: Cutting

• Keep hands clear of the cutting blade.
• Activate the shear according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Allow the blade to complete its cycle before removing the cut material.

Safety Considerations: Never override or bypass safety guards. Be aware of pinch points.

Step 4: Post-Cutting

• Turn off and lock out the shear.
• Remove the cut material and dispose of scrap properly.
• Clean the work area.

Safety Considerations: Wear gloves when handling cut material to avoid cuts from sharp edges.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

• Lockout/Tagout: Always lockout/tagout the shear before performing any maintenance or repairs.
• Housekeeping: Keep the work area clean and free of obstructions.
• Material Storage: Store materials properly to prevent tripping hazards and ensure easy access.
• Emergency Stop: Know the location and operation of the emergency stop button.
• Ventilation: Provide sufficient ventilation for operations causing dust formation 3, 5, 6.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

• In the event of an emergency, immediately stop work and activate the emergency stop button.
• Evacuate the area if necessary.
• Call for first aid or medical assistance.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

• Injury: Provide first aid and seek medical attention.
• Equipment Malfunction: Stop using the equipment and report the malfunction to the supervisor.
• Fire: Activate the fire alarm and evacuate the area. Use a fire extinguisher if safe to do so.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

• First Aid: [PHONE NUMBER]
• Security: [PHONE NUMBER]
• Emergency Services: 911

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

Report all incidents, near-misses, and hazards to the supervisor immediately. All reported incidents will be investigated to determine the root cause and prevent recurrence.

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Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION] Date: [APPROVAL DATE]

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