This workbook, Tool, Machine, and Equipment: Safety and Operation, has been prepared for instructors and students in agricultural education, technical education, trades & industry, and other agencies for safety instruction. In addition, this workbook would be valuable to a homeowner aiding in the safe and proper operation of power tools and equipment commonly found in the home shop.
The workbook is designed to give the student a basic understanding of the proper operation of tools, machines, and equipment. A variety of tools, machines, and equipment are covered that are commonly found in school laboratories/ shops. For each of these, there is a section on part identification, safe operational procedures, general safety practices, and completion questions. After the student has read the written material and completed the part identification and question section, the instructor should determine the proper adjustment and operational features of the power tool being studied. Following this, the student should successfully complete the safety exam and then be allowed to operate the power tool with close supervision from the instructor.
The next step in this educational process is for the student to complete an activity of their choosing using the power tool, or tools, that have been studied. As manufacturers' designs differ for the same power tool, the instructor should make certain the operator's manual is available and used for adjusting and operating the specific tool, machine, or piece of equipment.
An Instructor's Packet designed to be used in conjunction with this manual is available. It contains suggested instructor and student activities; tool, machine, and equipment diagram masters; and safety exams.
Almost everyone involved in school laboratory/shop instructional programs will come in contact with tools, machines, and equipment. The safe and proper operation of these are essential for quality and efficiency of student work. Knowledge of the safe and proper operation of tools, machines, and equipment will make the work easier and more enjoyable and will increase operator satisfaction and performance.