Safe working practices, including identifying hazards and making risk assessments.

⚠️ Why it matters: Think of your workshop as a video game level. Just as you plan your moves to avoid traps, you must identify hazards and plan how to stay safe. This keeps you and your classmates injury‑free and lets you focus on creating awesome projects.

A hazard is anything that can cause harm. Common hazards in a design studio:

• ⚙️ Sharp tools – saws, knives, drills.
• 🛠️ Heavy equipment – presses, lathes.
• 🧪 Chemicals – solvents, paints.
• 🪑 Slips & trips – cluttered floors, wet surfaces.
• 💡 Electrical hazards – exposed wires, overloaded sockets.

Analogy: Imagine each hazard as a hidden trap in a video game. Spotting them early means you can avoid falling into danger.

A risk assessment is a step‑by‑step plan that tells you:

1. What could go wrong? (Hazard)
2. Who could be harmed? (People)
3. How likely is it? (Probability)
4. How serious would it be? (Severity)
5. What can we do to reduce the risk? (Control measures)

Example: Using a hand drill:

• Hazard: rotating blade.
• People: you, classmates.
• Probability: high if not used correctly.
• Severity: severe – could cause serious injury.
• Controls: wear safety goggles, keep hands clear, use a drill guard.

Think of these as rules of the game that keep everyone safe:

• 🧤 Wear PPE – goggles, gloves, ear protection.
• 🗂️ Keep the workspace tidy – no clutter, clear exits.
• 🔌 Check equipment – ensure guards are in place, no frayed cords.
• 📚 Read instructions – before using any tool.
• 🚨 Know emergency procedures – location of fire extinguisher, first aid kit.

Analogy: PPE is like a shield in a fantasy game – it protects you from attacks (hazards) you might not see.

📚 Exam Strategy:

• Read the question carefully – identify the hazard first.
• Use the 5‑step risk assessment as a checklist.
• Show your control measures – explain why they reduce risk.
• Use diagrams or tables where possible to organise information.
• Keep your language clear and concise – avoid jargon unless necessary.

Remember: The examiners look for logical reasoning and practical solutions, not just a list of hazards.

Hazard → Control → PPE

Safe working practices are not just rules – they’re the foundation of creativity. By spotting hazards, assessing risks, and applying controls, you protect yourself and your classmates, allowing you to focus on building, designing, and innovating. 🚀