Home Workshop Safety Reference — PPE, Fire, Fumes
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Markdown
Home Workshop Safety Reference — PPE, Fire, Fumes
PPE by Machine
| Machine | Eyes | Hearing | Hands | Lungs | Face |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CNC Router | Safety glasses | Plugs/muffs | Leather gloves (setup only — NOT during cut) | N95 for MDF | — |
| Laser (Class 4) | OD5+ laser goggles (correct wavelength) | — | — | Respirator (activated carbon) | — |
| 3D Printer | — | — | Heat-resistant when removing parts | — | — |
| Angle grinder | Full face shield | Plugs | Cut-resistant | — | Face shield |
| Table saw | Safety glasses | Plugs | — | Dust mask | — |
Never wear gloves on rotating machinery (drill press, lathe, CNC spindle in motion).
Laser Specific
- Diode laser (Ray5 20W): 445-450nm blue — need OD5+ 450nm goggles
- Never operate without enclosure or eye protection
- Never laser PVC — produces chlorine gas
- Vent fumes outside — all materials produce toxic byproducts
- Keep fire extinguisher within arm's reach
Fire Safety
- CO2 extinguisher near laser and CNC
- ABC extinguisher near general shop area
- Laser: monitor every job — don't leave running unattended
- Clear flammable debris from work areas before cutting
- Metal waste bin for hot material from cutting/grinding
Fume/Dust Hazards
| Material | Hazard | PPE |
|---|---|---|
| MDF | Formaldehyde, fine silica dust | N95+, ventilation |
| Plywood | Formaldehyde from adhesive | N95+, ventilation |
| PLA laser cut | Some VOCs | Ventilation |
| ABS print fumes | Styrene, VOCs | Ventilation |
| Hardwood dust | Species-specific toxicity | N95 minimum |
| Aluminum grinding | Fine metal particles | N95+ |
Electrical Safety
- GFCI outlets for all machines near floor/water
- Don't run machines on extension cords long-term
- Dedicated 20A circuit for CNC and laser
- Surge protection on electronics
Emergency Contacts
- Keep first aid kit stocked: bandages, burn gel, eye wash
- Nearest ER: Laughlin Memorial, Greeneville TN