With the development of fiber optic technology, more and more companies have begun to choose fiber laser machines for cutting metal materials. The use of fiber laser cutter not only improves shop efficiency, but also reduces labor costs and makes metal manufacturing easier. However, the operation of any machine should comply with the necessary safety regulations. Here are some safety tips when using a fiber laser cutter that every fabricator should know.
 

Get To Know the Machine

Metalworkers must take the time to learn about every machine they use at work. For starters, individuals ought to read the manufacturer’s manual. The manual will tell staff members where to find the proper safety gears and what to do in case of an emergency.
The guidelines should also let metalworkers know what materials each device can handle. The manual might also tell people about the equipment’s thickness capabilities. No one should ever cut through a thicker material than the tool can handle because it won’t make it all the way through. Not only is this a safety hazard, but customers will not be satisfied with the finished product.
 

Clean the Workspace

After someone has gotten to know the machine, they must make sure their workspace is clean. Fiber lasers don’t spew dust particles because everything disintegrates from the heat. However, leaving a piece of scrap metal near the equipment could pose a fire hazard. As a result, fabricators must clean the surrounding area before they begin a project. Though this may seem like a relatively small step, it could prevent significant headaches in the future.
 

Safety Gear Is a Must

Another step workers must take before they work with a fiber laser  cutting machine is getting their safety gear in order. Individuals must wear personal protective equipment to keep themselves safe. Supervisors should provide staff with durable goggles to protect their eyes. Fabricators should also wear thick gloves while operating the machinery to avoid potential burns. People need safety gear so the workflow can remain consistent, and everyone can reduce the likelihood of accidents.
 

Other Responsibilities of the Employer

Aside from giving people the proper PPE, supervisors must also develop superior training programs. These training programs should include these safety tips for using a fiber laser cutter, as well as other factors that’ll help keep people safe.
 

The Cut Itself

Once an individual completes all the necessary steps, they can finally start to cut materials. Metalworkers must first ensure that they have aligned the piece of sheet metal properly. Everything must be straight so the cuts can be as accurate as possible.
 

After the Cut

A metalworker’s job isn’t complete after they make the perfect final cut. Fabricators should check over the machine to ensure nothing is leaking out and that everything is in working order. Fiber laser cutters must have the right amount of coolant so the temperatures can drop after the machine is turned off. If anyone notices suspicious spills, they should find the cause and solve the problem immediately.
If the post-cut inspection checks out, staff members ought to clean their workspace. If they leave a scrap at their workstation, a fire could ignite. For these reasons, employees must look over every device after they complete a job.
 
Metal fabrication shops are always busy because they provide materials for various industries, but this doesn’t mean that supervisors can ignore proper safety protocols in the name of productivity. Rather, managers ought to develop training programs and shouldn’t allow folks to begin working before they know what they’re doing. The safer people feel at work, the more productive they will be.