Safe Use of Metal Shears
A safety talk focused on metal shear hazards, including sharp edges, pinch points, flying fragments, hand placement, tool condition, and safe handling of cut metal.
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Key Hazards
- Cuts from sharp sheet metal edges
- Pinched fingers between blades, handles, or material
- Flying metal fragments, chips, or burrs
- Hand injuries from poor cutting position
- Material shifting or springing during cutting
- Using dull, damaged, or incorrect shears
2–3 Minute Talk Script
Metal shears can cut sheet metal, flashing, straps, banding, and light metal materials, but they create sharp edges, pinch points, and flying fragment hazards.
Workers should inspect shears before use. Blades, handles, pivot points, springs, grips, guards, and cutting edges should be in good condition.
The correct shear should be used for the material and thickness. Using the wrong tool can require excessive force and increase the chance of slipping or damaging the blades.
Hands should stay clear of the cutting path and blade area. Workers should avoid holding the material where the shear could close on fingers.
Cut metal edges can be extremely sharp. Gloves may be needed when handling freshly cut pieces, scrap, or curled edges.
Eye protection should be used when cutting metal that could produce fragments, burrs, or snapping pieces.
The material should be supported so it does not shift, twist, spring, or fall while being cut. Large pieces may require help or a stable work surface.
Safe metal shear use depends on tool condition, correct tool selection, good hand placement, eye protection, and careful handling of sharp cut edges.
Safety Reminders
- Inspect shears before use.
- Use the right shear for the metal type and thickness.
- Keep hands clear of blades and cutting paths.
- Wear gloves when handling sharp metal edges.
- Wear eye protection when fragments may fly.
- Support material before cutting.
- Dispose of sharp scrap safely.
Ask the Crew
- Are the shears in good condition?
- Is the tool appropriate for the material thickness?
- Where are the worker’s hands during the cut?
- Could cut edges or fragments injure hands or eyes?
- How will sharp scrap be handled and disposed of?