Likely hazards

• Sharp edges, hand tools, spinning parts, pinch points, hot components, batteries, and electrical wiring are all common robotics hazards.
• Moving robots can roll into feet, tip over, or trap fingers if they are tested without enough space or supervision.
• Chemicals such as battery contents or adhesives can also create burn or eye risks if misused.

How to prevent problems

• Inspect tools and parts before use, secure loose wiring, and keep the workspace organized.
• Power robots off before adjusting wiring, gears, or moving mechanisms.
• Test in open areas, keep observers clear of moving parts, and use a spotter or teammate during robot movement.

Safety gear and clothing

• Safety glasses are a basic requirement whenever cutting, drilling, or working near moving parts.
• Closed-toe shoes help protect feet from dropped tools and robot parts.
• Tie back long hair and avoid loose sleeves, jewelry, or anything that could get caught in a mechanism.

Cuts and scrapes

• Wash hands, stop the bleeding with clean pressure, clean the area gently, and use a bandage if needed.
• Prevent cuts by handling metal edges carefully and keeping blades or cutting tools pointed safely away from yourself and others.

Eye injuries

• If dust or a small particle gets into the eye, rinse with clean water. If there is a serious injury or something stuck in the eye, get adult help and medical care right away.
• Prevent eye injuries by wearing eye protection whenever tools, springs, drills, or flying debris are possible.

Heat or chemical burns

• Cool a mild heat burn with cool running water and get adult help for anything serious.
• For chemical exposure, flush with lots of water and follow adult or emergency instructions quickly.
• Prevent burns by using tools properly, giving hot parts time to cool, and handling batteries carefully.