Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v4 - SHS 1
HEALTH AND SAFETY IN ENGINEERING PRACTICE
Download the Lessonotes Mobile Ghana app for faster lesson access on Android and iPhone.
HEALTH AND SAFETY IN ENGINEERING PRACTICE
Download the Lessonotes Mobile Ghana app for faster lesson access on Android and iPhone.
Subject: Engineering
Class: SHS 1
Term: 1st Term
Week: 11
Grade code: 1.1.2.LI.4
Strand code: 1
Sub-strand code: 2
Content standard code: 1.1.2.CS.1
Indicator code: 1.1.2.LI.4
Theme: ENGINEERING PRACTICE
Subtheme: HEALTH AND SAFETY IN ENGINEERING PRACTICE
This page supports the lesson note with a companion video and a short classroom-ready summary.
For class groups and homework, share this lesson page so learners also get the summary, objectives, and full lesson context.
This lesson introduces the fundamental principles of health and safety when using common hand and power tools in an engineering workshop. In Ghana, many of us see welders, carpenters, and mechanics working every day. Sometimes, we see them get injured because they are not using their tools safely. Understanding and practising these safety protocols is not just about passing an exam; it's about protecting ourselves and others from serious harm, ensuring we can work efficiently, and respecting the tools and materials we use. This lesson moves from theory to practice, equipping learners with the hands-on skills to operate tools confidently and safely.
A. What is Health and Safety in an Engineering Workshop? It is a set of rules, procedures, and practices designed to prevent accidents, injuries, and illnesses in the workspace. The goal is to create a safe environment where engineering tasks can be performed without endangering anyone. The golden rule is: "No task is so important that we cannot take the time to do it safely." B. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) PPE is equipment worn to minimize exposure to hazards. It is the last line of defence. The specific PPE needed depends on the task.
| PPE Item | Purpose | Examples of Use | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Safety Goggles/Glasses | Protects eyes from flying debris, dust, sparks, and chemical splashes. | Grinding, drilling, sawing, chiselling, welding. | | Overalls/Workshop Coat | Protects your clothes and skin from dirt, grease, and minor cuts. Must not be loose-fitting. | General workshop activities. | | Safety Boots | Protects feet from falling objects and sharp items on the floor. Often have steel toe caps. | Essential for all workshop activities. | | Gloves | Protects hands from cuts, burns, chemicals, and splinters. | Handling rough materials, welding, chemical work. NEVER wear gloves when operating rotating machinery like lathes or pillar drills, as they can get caught. | | Ear Muffs/Plugs | Protects hearing from loud noise generated by machinery. | Using angle grinders, power saws, planers. | | Dust Mask/Respirator| Prevents inhalation of harmful dust (e.g., from wood, metal) or fumes. | Sanding, sawing MDF, spray painting, welding. | | Helmet | Protects the head from falling objects. | Common on construction sites and in workshops with overhead activities. | C. The Four-Step Safety Protocol for Tool Use (P.I.O.S.) This is a simple but powerful framework to remember for using *any* tool, from a simple hammer to a complex power tool.
P - PREPARE Yourself: Wear the correct PPE. Tie back long hair. Remove jewellery (rings, bracelets). Ensure you are focused and not distracted. Your Workspace: Make sure the area is clean, tidy, and well-lit. Remove any tripping hazards. Ensure good ventilation. Your Material: Secure the workpiece firmly. Use a vice, clamps, or another holding device. Never hold a small workpiece in your hand while drilling or cutting it.
I - INSPECT The Tool: Check for any damage. Hand Tools: Are handles tight and not cracked? Are cutting edges sharp and not chipped? Power Tools: Is the power cord free from cuts or frays? Is the plug in good condition? Are all safety guards in place and working correctly? Is the correct bit/blade/disc installed securely? If a tool is damaged, DO NOT USE IT. Report it to the teacher/supervisor immediately.