Safety Etiquette for Blacksmithing Workshops
Every smith should know the proper safety rules and guidelines before entering a blacksmithing workshop. Foundries are full of many dangerous conditions, which is why following safety measures is so important. Read through these safety etiquette guidelines that all blacksmithing workshops should follow.
Stay Focused on Your Project
One of the most common mistakes newcomer blacksmiths make is getting distracted while smithing. No blacksmith should be more focused on a conversation, instructional video on their phone, or other distractions than they are on completing their piece. Even when learning as an apprentice, your focus should remain on the tools in your hands. If you allow room for distractions, you could end up burning yourself.
Be Aware of What’s Happening Around You
In a high-traffic blacksmithing workshop, it’s crucial that all smiths, apprentices, and other employees stay wary of what’s happening around them. While concentrating on your own project is crucial for your safety, you should also use caution when navigating the workshop and working around others. For example, always give those in your vicinity a warning when you’re about to take a hot piece of metal out of the heat source or transport it to an anvil. This measure is something everyone in the shop should practice, regardless of their experience level.
Understand the Proper Safety Equipment
Just as you would memorize common blacksmithing equipment, such as which blacksmithing tongs you’re most likely to find in the workshop, you should also have an understanding of metalworking PPE. Safety equipment is crucial when working in the foundry due to the dangerous conditions present. For example, smiths should always wear safety glasses and the proper clothing before stepping into the workshop. Tight-fitting cotton clothing is ideal, as it is less likely to melt from proximity to your heat source. There are many other types of blacksmithing PPE to use, such as aprons, gloves, and more.
If you’re interested in starting blacksmithing as a business or hobby, it’s crucial that you learn and understand these pieces of safety etiquette for blacksmithing workshops. Remember these basic tips as you stock your workspace with all the tools and safety gear you’ll need to start forging.
