Safety in the Mens Shed

The Mens Shed has a vast range of tools and machinery for blokes to utilise themselves (provided they are competent and approved) or in conjunction with an experienced buddy. Standards have been established within the Shed that are drawn from industry best practice as our best endeavors to keep everyone safe and happy to enjoy what they do at the Shed. General safety rules are prominently displayed throughout the building and specific machinery rules are posted on each machine. Group and individual training on specific peices of machinery and equipment is undertaken upon request from members.

A safety rating system has been created whereby every member is identified as to their abilities and safe interaction with machinery. The interaction between man and machine can be the most fulfilling to witness, but in the wrong hands and without the respect required it can become a fatal attraction.

To assist the Coordinator in the running of the Shed, members who possess particular skills and attributes have been identified, and invited to volunteer to become "Shed Supervisors" thereby specifically taking responsibility for certain activities as listed below;

• Provide training, supervision and monitoring in the safe use of machinery and tools in the Shed
• Meet and greet visitors to the Shed and explain the intent and operation of the Shed
• Encourage the signing up of new members of the Shed
• Ensure the Shed is opened on time and closed at finish for the day and security measures are in place
• Other duties as agreed with the Coordinator

Masterton Mens Shed Health and Safety Document (Updated April 2020)

General Safety Rules

A model of managing safety in a Mens Shed

Member Safety Rating System (Updated April 2020)