OSHA recently called the attention of a firearms manufacturing company because of its alleged violations on health and safety standards.  The Newport plant of Sturm Ruger & Co. Inc was inspected between November 2008 and May 2009 and was discovered to have violated standards on PPE and machine guards, fire and explosives as well as inadequate recordkeeping among others.  Due to this, OSHA wants to fine the company $255,150.

To avoid having a similar experience, be reminded of the safety practices in every step of manufacturing gun and other firearms.  Whether casting metal or polishing firearms, be sure you are following the rules and regulations that are set in place by your employer and your local authority.  Here are some ways you can avoid being fined by OSHA.

• Use the necessary PPE such as respiratory protection every time you do your work.  This is to avoid inhaling lead and other dangerous chemicals that are transmitted through air.  Use the proper eye protection too such as safety goggles as well as the proper clothing – usually, long sleeves and pants to protect your skin.  Your employer must be able to provide you with these.  Maintain your PPE and clothing well.
• Follow every step carefully and be sensitive to your environment.  Remove all clutter and unnecessary items in your workplace to avoid fire and explosions.
• Always guard machines that have rotating or dangerous parts.  Don’t leave them exposed.  This is for everyone’s safety.
• Equip your workplace with fire extinguishers and other fire-fighting equipment.  Make sure they are inspected regularly to ensure that they work effectively when the need arises.
• Keep your machines well-oiled, if necessary.  Always inspect them to make sure that all parts present are in good condition.  Replace parts that need to be replaced and repair machines that need to be repaired.  Don’t forget to turn off machines and unplug them before doing these.  Keep in mind the lockout and tagout regulations too.
• If there is a need to post print outs of reminders and safety checks for everyone, do so.
• Keep your workplace well-ventilated to avoid suffocation and sudden explosions.  Keep flammable items away.
• Do not smoke while you are at work to avoid sparks.
• Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before eating, drinking or smoking to avoid lead poisoning.  Better yet, wash whole body and change into clean clothes after working.
• Check electrical connections from time to time to prevent electrocution and other electrical accidents.
• Clean all surfaces of your work area after working.  Use the appropriate cleaner and detergent for removing lead that has settled down.  Use also the proper disposal bags for safe waste elimination.  Keep the whole workplace clean, tidy and organized all the time.
• Practice effective record-keeping.

Keeping up with safety precautions in gun making is more than just avoiding fines imposed by OSHA.  It is, more importantly, about protecting yourself and your co-workers from the hazards brought about by the nature of your work.  Wherever you are working, always keep your workplace a safe one!