As a follow up to the woodworking safety guidelines posted earlier, I want to discus some personal safety items. These are things I currently have and use as the need arises.
First and foremost I take eye and vision protection very seriously. So many hazards frequent nearly any workshop that eye protection cannot be ignored.
I normally wear prescription lenses, although I don’t need them for close work. My inventory of personal eye safety equipment includes:
Wrap around safety glasses. These are a good idea any time we are in a workshop environment.
Over-the-eye-glass goggles. I have them, but seldom use them. They can also be used by visitors to the workshop. These provide protection if you might need prescription lenses normally. They, by their nature, can also protect against liquid splashes.
Next, I have full face shield with a flip-up lens. I find this shield beneficial for operations such as grinding when sparks may be flying, or sanding. It may even help to partially control the sawdust in your face.
Hearing protection is next. Some woodworking machinery is extremely noisy and can be damaging to hearing.
I use ear muff type protectors.
I also use gloves, depending on the task. For example, I may want to use leather gloves to protect my hands from splinters. I also use nitrile glove when handling chemicals or something greasy.
For dusty conditions, such as when I am sanding, I use a dust mask. There are many different grades, depending on the particular project.
For chemicals, or painting, I suggest a respirator with the correct cartridge. I don’t have one to display.
I also have a leather welding apron. It’s not specifically for woodworking, but may come in hand from time to time. I still do some welding.
Other items that I consider to be safety related include some tools or accessories to facilitate keeping my hands away from moving cutting blades.
Here, I include push sticks and pads.
Likewise, I also include some examples of feather boards.
This list is not meant to be all inclusive. If you have any suggestion for something I missed, please let me know and I will add it.
Most of these items can be found at most any place that sells tools and are relatively inexpensive. I include hardware stores, home improvement stores, specialty woodworking stores, or ever Harbor Freight as examples. I purchased much of mine at a welding supply store. Some of the better hearing protection can be found at places that sell shooting supplies.
The proper use of these items can keep our woodworking hobby a safe and enjoyable experience.