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riskassessment:rd9060ra

Risk Assessment

Area assessment is taking place RDL-9060 Laser Engraver Work Area
Assessment undertaken by Person 1 Aidan Taylor
Person 2 Name 2
Persons at risk Members using the makerspace or working in proximity, visitors to the makerspace

Description of activity being assessed

Members and visitors general use of the RDL-9060 Laser Engraver as intended by the manufacturer. Visitors are included as this machine has a low barrier to entry for use, and will be used for public events and prospective members.

Identified hazards

  1. Fire
  2. Noxious vapours or smoke
  3. Trapping fingers
  4. Malfunctioning machine
  5. Improper or unauthorised use

1. Fire

Fire is unlikely but certainly possible with any laser cutter

Controls Applied:
  • No flammable material stored near laser cutter
  • Compressor and extraction fan are maintained
  • Users are instructed to sweep out lower basin of laser cutter
  • Laser Engraver is set up away from designated exit route
  • Fire extinguishers are maintained in the room ensuring safe exit is possible
  • Purchase a small fire extinguisher to keep with the machine in addition to main extinguisher for room

2. Noxious vapours or smoke

Controls Applied:
  • Only laser grade or laser safe materials are to be used with the laser cutter
  • Compressor and extraction fan are maintained and ensured to work efficiently
  • List of suitable materials maintained on the RDL-9060 machine page
  • None

3. Trapped fingers

Controls Applied:
  • Users are instructed to lower the lid carefully and avoid slamming
  • Gas struts of machine lid maintained
  • None

4. Malfunctioning machine

Controls Applied:
  • Machine is maintained according to the maintenance schedule.
  • Maintenance record is kept up to date on the makerspace Wiki page (link at top of this record).
  • Maintainer cleans the machine and greases moving parts.
  • Any present or emerging faults are logged on the Wiki and raised immediately with the makerspace directors who have the power to stop activities if there is a risk of harm
  • None

5. Improper or unauthorised use

Controls Applied:
  • Inductions are required for general use of this machine, but due to the low risk, use under supervision by members or guests to the makerspace is acceptable.
  • Directors have the power to revoke 'inducted' status if a user is shown to be incompetent or uses the machine inappropriately.
  • The laser tube is powered off when not in use with a key power switch. The key is stored in a key safe.
  • Users should pay particular attention to the machines cables - the long USB computer connection could easily be yanked which could damage the connection at either end.
  • Include signage for users to pay attention to cables when moving machine
Date of Assessment Review Date
03/12/2022 03/12/2023
riskassessment/rd9060ra.txt · Last modified: by jamesball