Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. 17 Chapter 2 ∣ Shop Safety and Environmental Protection Be vigilant of potential electrical hazards in the shop. When using test equipment and performing electrical tests, be careful to avoid short circuits, arcing, and accidental grounds. The danger of electrical shock is often overlooked because of the unseen electricity that may be present. Dynamometers are devices for measuring engine power. Because the vehicle is tied to the dynamometer and operated on a series of rollers, these machines can pose a hazard. Some dynos are placed in the floor, while others are located aboveground. Moving rollers, tie-down con- nections, and clamps can be hazardous. Other hazards are debris flying from the rear of the machine, chains break- ing, and flying tire fragments. Avoid walking behind or on top of the dyno. Because the roller comes to a stop on its own inertia, the roller continues to spin with great force for a few minutes after the test vehicle is shut off. Helmet and ear protection are highly recommended. Another safety consideration is exhaust removal during dyno test runs. Visitors in the shop present an additional hazard. Be aware that when customers are allowed in to pick up motorcycles or talk to service personnel, it may not be pos- sible to safely continue operating equipment or work on a motorcycle. You may have to wait until the visitor has left before continuing your work. Good Work Habits Many motorcycle assemblies are very heavy. Lift heavy parts with your legs, not with your back. When lifting, bend at the knees while keeping your back as straight as possible, Figure 2-7. Request assistance to lift a heavy item. When mounting an engine or motorcycle on a stand or lift, work with another person. Ensure that the assembly is secure. A small hydraulic jack and a block of wood can be used to raise the chassis. Block the front and rear wheels if they are to remain on the ground. If the transmission will not be worked on and the drive chain or drive belt is con- nected to the rear wheel, shift the transmission into first gear. Do not open more than one tool chest drawer at one time otherwise, the tool chest might flip over and cause a serious injury. Some cabinet tool chests, fully loaded, weigh more than 1,000 lb (450 kg). Be sure to close each drawer before opening the next. Use the right tool for the job. A good technician knows when, where, and why a particular tool will work better than another. Even though more than one tool can be used to loosen a bolt, usually one will do the best job. Also, never carry sharp tools or parts in your pockets—they can easily puncture your skin. Discard and replace broken tools. Also, wipe tools clean and dry after each use. A greasy or oily tool is dangerous. Your hand could easily slide off a dirty wrench, resulting in a cut or broken finger or hand. Always follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions for special tools and equipment. Keep equipment guards or shields in place at all times. Position body over load Keep back as erect as possible Use leg muscles Weight close to body Legs bent Straight back Goodheart-Willcox Publisher Figure 2-6. This vehicle is connected to an exhaust extraction system. The system draws exhaust gases from the vehicle and routes them outside the building. Goodheart-Willcox Publisher Figure 2-7. Use proper form when picking up any weight, no matter how light it may seem. Get help when lifting heavy or bulky items.