1. Avoid a messy shop. Clutter invites sloppy work habits; also, spilled grease and oil create fire hazards, especially in combination with power tools or a welding torch.
2. Keep parts and automotive tools on shelves or in cabinets where they can be located easily and aren't lying about the floor inviting accidents.
3. Maintain sharp edges on cutting tools such as chisels and drill bits. The better the tools work, the less you'll have to.
4. Store any toxic chemicals in locked cabinets where they will be kept safely out of children's reach.
5. Always read tool and product health and safety warnings. Labels on chemical containers often list emergency antidotes such as washing the exposed area. When using chemicals that can be corrosive to exposed skin, such as phosphoric acid rust remover, keep a supply of water handy to rinse off any chemical that comes into contact with your skin.
6. Install a first-aid kit in your shop where it can be reached quickly.
7. If you are spray painting, install a ventilation system and wear a mask approved for the painting products you are using. Professional painters wear masks or suits ventilated to an outside air supply and paint in filtered spray booths that draw awaytoxic painting fumes.
8. Never work underneath a car that is raised off its tires unless it is securely supported by professional-grade jack stands.
9. Double up for safety. If you are working on an engine that is mounted in an engine stand, take the precaution of supporting the engine's weight with a chain or cable suspended from a sturdy overhead support.
10. Wear safety glasses and protective clothing when welding, grinding or cutting metal, sandblasting and similar activities, and when pouring toxic or corrosive chemicals that could splash against the skin or into the eyes.
11. Equip your shop with at least two fire extinguishers. Make sure the extinguishers can be easily reached and their location is clearly visible.
12. Use parts-cleaning fluid, preferably a biodegradable solution in a parts washer, for degreasing parts. Avoid cleaning parts in gasoline.
13. Be alert to the danger of shorts and sparks from old wiring. Disconnect and remove the battery before working on the car. Make sure your shop wiring will support the current load of your tools.
14. Develop the habit of anticipating the possible consequences of your actions. For example, never weld near a gas line or the car's gas tank. Remember that body panels may be backed with undercoating or upholstery. Welding on these panelscould cause the car to catch on fire.
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