Logan Voss
As you train to become a blacksmith and learn some of the risks involved, you might be wondering what professionals do to promote safety in their workshops. Here are some key tips for preventing accidents and injuries while blacksmithing.
Use the Proper PPE
Before firing up the forge, you should always make sure that you have the proper protective gear for blacksmithing. The best way to prevent injuries in any kind of workshop is by using the recommended protective equipment. Blacksmithing PPE includes safety goggles, a mask or respirator, heat-resistant gloves, ear protection, clothes made of natural fibers, and steel-toed shoes. To find the right blacksmithing gloves and other protective equipment, always consider your applications in the workshop and what protective qualities you need the most.
Pay Attention to the Workshop Layout
There are also safety features that you can implement in your workshop. For example, melting and smelting processes can often produce dangerous fumes depending on the materials you’re working with. To avoid inhaling these gases, confirm that your workshop has several ventilation sources and utilize a HEPA filtering system or respirator. You should also ensure that your workshop has suitable ventilation sources to keep air circulating and prevent overheating.
Additionally, never place your tools and equipment too far away from you while smithing. A disorganized tool layout can decrease efficiency and even result in accidents.
Always Stay Aware
You can prevent injuries in the workshop by staying aware and cautious during your smithing process. Spatial awareness is especially important in workshops with several people working at the same time. When transporting hot metals and tools, always notify those working around you and watch out for fellow smiths who might be standing in your path. Keep anvil and hammering stations at least several feet apart from each other to avoid sending hot debris toward other smiths working nearby.
These three simple tips can help significantly reduce your chances of experiencing injuries and accidents while in a blacksmith workshop. Remember these safety guidelines to prevent accidents while blacksmithing so that you can utilize them in your own workshop one day.
