Title: Demonstrate the safe use of power tools and equipment.
Course: Introduction to Power, Structural, and Technical Systems (18401) > Section: Applying Safety Practices in the Agricultural Mechanics Lab

Demonstration should include emphasizing the use, hazards, precautions, and maintenance procedures associated with power tools and equipment and

- following all safety precautions, procedures, guidelines, and manufacturer specifications
- using all required PPE
- undergoing safety instruction and testing prior to diagnosing, maintaining, repairing, and/or operating power tools, machinery, or equipment
- following all lockout/tagout procedures.

Power tools may include

- air impact gun
- air hammer
- air ratchet
- air drill
- electric drill
- electric grinder.

Equipment may include

- pneumatic equipment (e.g., tire machine, pneumatic jack)
- hydraulic equipment (e.g., floor jack, lift rack, hydraulic press, engine hoist)
- electrical equipment (e.g., bench grinder, drill press, battery testers and chargers).

Teacher Resources:

- Safety Manual, Virginia Department of Education (https://www.doe.virginia.gov/instruction/career_technical/cte-safety-best-practice-guide.docx)
- Recommended Practices for Safety and Health Programs, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (https://www.osha.gov/safety-management)

Process/Skill Questions:

- What is the purpose of a “dead man switch” and/or “kill switch” on power tools? What is the purpose of an emergency stop (e-stop) or emergency power-off (EPO) on power tools?
- When should adjustments be made to power tools?
- Why is training on the use of a power tool necessary before using it?
- What are safe vs. unsafe uses of air compressors in the agricultural lab/workshop?
- What is the safest way to hold a part in a vise?
- What are the different safety colors and what do they mean?
- Who regulates safety in the workplace?
- Why are symbols used for the operation of equipment?
- Where can the safety rules for using equipment at school be found?
- Why is working as a team important to safety in the lab?