Updated: 11/06/2009

Resources:

Teachers:

• Search for Ag Mechanics Teachers

Texts:

• Agriculture Mechanics Fundamentals and Applications – 6th Edition, Ray Herren
• Modern Agricultural Mechanics -- Burke, Stanley R., & Wakeman, T. J. (1990).  (2nd ed.). Danville, IL: Interstate Publishers.

Web Sites:

• California Ag Teacher's Safety Guide

• Safety Resources

Curriculum:

Methods:

• Be sure you are comfortable performing any of the skills you will be demonstrating to your class.

Standards:

Unit Topics:

1. Introduction (Outline) (PPT)

   Farm shops are the scene of many accidents. Most of these accidents involve hand and eye injuries. A survey by the National Safety Council estimated there are 15,000 eye injuries on American farms annually. These injuries are painful and expensive, and can result in partial or total blindness. Other injuries involve burns, cuts, abrasions and sprains to various part of the body.  An important part of agricultural mechanics shop classes in learning how to work safely and indentify unsafe conditions.

General Agricultural Mechanics Shop Awareness

Education of the student is an important element in accident prevention. It is important that safe work practices are followed in the agricultural mechanics shop. The instructor should always model safe behavior.  Student training should include instruction in:

• The use of personal protective equipment such as safety glasses or goggles are required (see education code).
• The proper use of tools and equipment in the shop and procedures to keep them in good repair. 
• Safe methods of lifting heavy objects
• Proper conduct in the work area to avoid accidents and injuries. This should include a discussion of horseplay and inappropriate practical jokes.
• Proper interpretation of safety and warning signs, including material safety data sheets (MSDS).   Materials can be a hazardous as tools.
• If you are unsure how to use a tool ask the instructor.

SHOP SAFETY RULES

• Work areas should be kept clean and clear from clutter.
• Machinery and equipment should be kept clean, with guards in place.
• Special waste containers, if any, should be appropriately marked (e.g. greasy rags).
• Protective equipment and special emergency equipment, such as an emergency eyewash station, should be maintained and in good working order.
• Fire extinguishers should be in plain view with unhindered access.
• Do not overburden electrical outlets.
• Cords, wires, lines, etc. should be kept away from aisles and traffic areas.
• Material should not be stored on the floor where a tripping hazard exists.  Be especially cautious of round stock such as pipe as it may roll when stepped on.
• Keep paper and other materials away from heat sources.
• Aisles, doorways and exits should be kept clear.
• Make sure stationary power tools are properly grounded. Cords should be in good condition.
• Portable power tools should be double insulated or of the three-wire grounded type.
• Ensure ample electrical capacities so power tools can be operated without blowing fuses or tripping circuit breakers.
• Keep shields and guards in place on grinders and saws at all times.
• When welding, keep the area well ventilated, and make sure flammable and combustible materials are kept safely away. Protect other students from arc flash whenever possible
• Welding gas bottles should always be secured.

Make sure students are trained in the following areas:

• Instruct students in safe methods of machine operations, and supervise to ensure that safe operating procedures are being followed.
• A power shut-off switch should be in reach of the operator’s position at each machine.
• Lock-out each machine during maintenance and repair.
• All pulleys and belts, nip, shear and pinch points within seven feet of the floor or working level should be fully guarded.
• Grinding wheel guards should enclose approximately three-quarters of the wheel.
• Work rests on grinders should be adjusted so they are not more than one-eighth inch from the wheel.

1. Safety (outline) (Safety Test)
2. Terminology
   1. Teacher Reference (HTML, Word)
   2. Student Reference (HTML, Word)

Hazard Assessment

• Shop Safety Checklist

Unit Assessment

• Shop Safety Quiz (Note:  This is a sample of a comprehensive safety quiz.  Each unit also has a safety quiz which may be used as the unit is taught.  It is strongly recommended that safety be reinforced with each unit.)

California Ag Mechanics Curriculum Project