Here are some basic safety tips:

• Always use common sense. And if common sense alludes you, ask a knowledgeable person for help.
  
• Read instructions that come with your tools and equipment - lots of good info here. Oh yes, and please follow the instructions!
  
• Wear goggles to protect your eyes from flying debris. I routinely wear goggles when I use the jump ringer, drill press, flex shaft, polishing lathe, and other electrically powered equipment. Anytime your eyes may be harmed by flying metal or debris, reach for those goggles.
  
• Wear a respirator when working with dust, mist, or fumes. Choose the proper filter for the job you are doing. There are many different types of respirators that have varying filtering capacities. Make sure to observe the warnings and limitations provided for these products.
  
• If you are doing a lot of hammering or other loud operations, hearing protectors will reduce noise and protect your hearing.
  
• I found this valuable safety tip in Tim McCreight's Fundamentals of Metalsmithing. "Eat, drink, and be merry, but not in the studio. Airborne particles and fumes will fall into snacks and cups on the bench and them be ingested. Dust that gathers on your hands will come off on your sandwich or cigarette, and from there it's a quick trip into your mouth".
  
• One way to cut your jewelry career short is to snip off small pieces of wire and let the ends fly through the air like missiles. Place your index finger on the side of the jaws of your cutters to prevent the little flying missile from finding your eyes, or someone else's. Don't create another problem, however, by sticking your finger between the blades! Please see "Single Eye Pins" in the Basic Wire Skills (Education Section) of my website for a photo.
  
• Material Safety Data Sheets are available for some products, like liver of sulfur. Please let me know if you would like a copy.

Torch Safety

1) Read and follow directions that come with your tank. If you are
unfamiliar or uncertain with how to use a torch, get informed help.

2) Work in a well-ventilated area.

3) Tie your hair back and don't wear scarves or other loose clothing.
Wear closed toed shoes.

4) If you are drowsy or less than mentally sharp (due to sleep
deprivation, medication, etc.) don't use the torch.

5) Work in a shaded area so you can see the flame.

6) Avoid distractions, i.e., talking, doing 2 things at the same time.

7) Have no combustibles on the table where you are working.

8) Have the proper fire extinguisher close by and know how to use it.

Power Tool Safety

1) Get expert guidance if you are new and ask for help when you need it.

2)Wear a particulate respirator mask whenever you stir up dust from metal, or polishing compounds.

3) Avoid eating, smoking and drinking in an area where there is metal or
compound dust.

4) When working with power equipment, always wear safety glasses and avoid loose clothing.

5) Remove jewelry when working with a buffing machine.

6) Follow all safety recommendations that come with power tools such as the flex shaft, drill press or buffing machine.