Articles

Subscribe to RSS Feed

Safety First-Best Bench Practices

By Stuller Technical Team | May 30, 2011

Safety is one of the most overlooked issues facing bench jewelers.  In short we tend to be our own worst enemy.  Most of the safety requirements for the bench jeweler amount to little more than a healthy dose of good old-fashioned common sense.

  • Vision is one of the most important senses that a jeweler needs.  It never should be taken for granted.  Eye protection should always be used when using a flex shaft, soldering, electroplating, casing, and polishing.  When working with platinum extra protection is required when soldering at high temperatures.  A #5 lens is considered a minimum.
  • Whenever casting or working with acids or other caustic chemicals, a full-face shield along with appropriate bodily protection should be worn.  This would include hands, arms, and upper body.
  • The use of cyanide should be abandoned.  There are too many alternatives available to risk your life through continued use of cyanide in any form.
  • Chemical compounds should be properly labeled and stored.  Have a copy of the MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) on hand for every chemical compound.  They contain important information concerning the safe handling and storage along with any of the compounds about these sheets.
  • Burns, cuts, and abrasions are common among bench jewelers. Keep up to date on tetanus inoculations and maintain a well-stocked first aid kit that contains bandages, antibacterial ointments, finger cots, and assorted other dressings.
  • Never wear a necktie (unless it is a clip on) when operating a powered rolling mill or polishing lathe.  The same goes for loose clothing.  Long hair must be tied back or otherwise restrained.
  • Never wear gloves when operating a powered rolling mill.
  • Proper ventilation is a must when polishing or working with acids and other caustic chemicals.  You only have one set of lungs-use them wisely.
  • Keep your hands and fingers out of the direction of travel for sharp tools; including the jewelers saw.
  • Another bad habit is eating at the bench.  Not only does it increase the likelihood of eating something you shouldn’t; it isn’t good housekeeping.
  • The bench tray is a very important part of the workbench.  Not only does it serve to capture precious metal for reclamation; it is also a very important safety feature that serves as a barrier between the working surface of the workbench and your lap.  The bench tray is not a wastebasket-don’t treat it as such!