Method Statement : Use of a Pillar Drill

Explanation

The use of a pillar drill in an engineering workshop involves the precise and controlled drilling of holes into metal workpieces. This task requires the operator to securely position the workpiece on the adjustable table, select the appropriate drill bit, and adjust the drill speed to match the material and drilling requirements. The aim is to achieve accurate and clean holes while maintaining safety and efficiency throughout the process. Proper handling and operation of the pillar drill are essential to ensure the integrity of the workpiece and the safety of the operator.

Responsibilities

• Operator : Ensure they are trained and competent in the use of the pillar drill and adhere to all safety procedures.
• Supervisor : Verify that operators are following safe operating procedures and wearing appropriate personal protective equipment.
• Maintenance Technician : Conduct regular inspections and maintenance of the pillar drill to ensure it is in safe working condition.
• Health and Safety Officer : Monitor compliance with health and safety regulations and provide guidance on safe practises.
• Workshop Manager : Ensure that the work environment is safe and that all necessary safety equipment is available and maintained.

Equipment

• Safety goggles
• Ear protection
• Dust mask or respirator
• Protective gloves
• Apron or protective clothing
• Steel-toed boots
• Clamps or vice
• Drill bits
• Brush for cleaning debris

Operation

• Conduct a visual inspection of the pillar drill for any signs of damage or wear.
• Ensure that all guards and safety devices are in place and functioning correctly.
• Verify that the drill bit is appropriate for the material being drilled and is securely fastened.
• Check that the workpiece is free from defects and properly secured to the table using clamps or a vice.
• Adjust the table height and angle to suit the workpiece and ensure stability.
• Select the correct drill speed for the material and task at hand, following manufacturer guidelines.
• Ensure that the work area is clean and free from obstructions or hazards.
• Confirm that personal protective equipment (PPE), such as safety goggles and hearing protection, is available and worn.
• Remove any loose clothing, jewellery, or accessories that could become entangled in the drill.
• Ensure that emergency stop controls are accessible and functioning.
• Position the drill bit precisely over the intended drilling point on the workpiece.
• Turn on the pillar drill, ensuring it reaches full speed before commencing drilling.
• Lower the drill bit slowly and steadily into the workpiece, applying consistent pressure without forcing it.
• Monitor the drilling process, ensuring the workpiece remains secure and there is no excessive vibration or noise.
• Once the hole is drilled, raise the drill bit completely out of the workpiece before turning off the machine.
• Switch off the pillar drill and wait for it to come to a complete stop before removing the workpiece.
• Remove any debris or metal shavings from the drill area, ensuring a tidy workspace for future use.

Risk Assessment : Use of a Pillar Drill

Who might be harmed: Machine Operators | Maintenance Personnel | Trainees or Apprentices

Type of harm: Amputation | Cuts and Abrasions | Death | Crush / Entrapment

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Probable (4) = High (20) Controls

• Ensure all operators tie back long hair and secure loose clothing before using the pillar drill.
• Remove all jewellery, including rings, watches, and necklaces, prior to operating the drill.
• Provide and enforce the use of protective clothing that fits snugly and does not have loose ends.
• Install safety guards around the rotating parts of the drill to prevent accidental contact.
• Conduct regular training sessions to remind operators of the risks of entanglement and proper safety practises.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Eye Injury : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Machine Operators | Workshop Technicians | Maintenance Personnel | Nearby Workers

Type of harm: Eye Damage

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Probable (4) = Medium (16) Controls

• Operators must wear safety goggles or a face shield to protect against flying debris and metal shards.
• Ensure that the work area is well-lit to allow operators to clearly see the drilling process and any potential hazards.
• Use a transparent drill guard to cover the drill bit and workpiece, providing a barrier against debris.
• Regularly inspect and maintain the drill and its components to prevent malfunctions that could lead to debris ejection.
• Keep the work area clean and free of loose materials that could become airborne during drilling operations.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Hand Injury : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Machine Operators | Maintenance Personnel | Trainees or Apprentices

Type of harm: Amputation | Broken Bones | Cuts and Abrasions | Crush / Entrapment

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Frequent (5) = Medium (15) Controls

• Ensure that all operators receive proper training on the safe use of the pillar drill, including hand positioning and awareness of moving parts.
• Use a drill guard to cover the rotating drill bit and prevent accidental contact with hands.
• Always secure the workpiece with a vice or clamps to prevent movement during drilling operations.
• Maintain a safe distance between hands and the drill bit by using push sticks or other tools to guide the workpiece.
• Regularly inspect and maintain the drill to ensure all safety features are functioning correctly.
• Implement a lockout/tagout procedure to ensure the drill is not accidentally started during maintenance or adjustments.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Noise Exposure : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Machine Operators | Nearby Workers | Maintenance Personnel

Type of harm: Permanent Hearing Damage

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Frequent (5) = High (25) Controls

• Operators should wear appropriate hearing protection, such as earplugs or earmuffs, to reduce noise exposure.
• Ensure the pillar drill is regularly maintained to minimise excessive noise from worn or damaged components.
• Limit the duration of exposure to the noise by rotating tasks among workers or scheduling regular breaks.
• Install noise-dampening materials or barriers around the drill area to absorb and reduce sound levels.
• Conduct regular noise level assessments to ensure compliance with occupational noise regulations.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Electric Shock : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Machine Operators | Maintenance Personnel | Electrical Technicians

Type of harm: Burns | Death | Electrocution

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Frequent (5) = Medium (15) Controls

• Ensure the pillar drill is properly grounded and regularly inspect the electrical connections for any signs of damage or wear.
• Use a Residual Current Device (RCD) to provide additional protection against electric shock.
• Conduct regular maintenance checks on the drill’s electrical components to ensure they are in good working condition.
• Ensure that all users are trained in the safe operation of the pillar drill and understand the risks associated with electric shock.
• Keep the work area dry and free from water or other conductive materials to prevent accidental electric shock.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Workpiece Ejection : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Machine Operator | Nearby Workers

Type of harm: Broken Bones | Cuts and Abrasions | Death | Eye Damage | Head Injury

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Probable (4) = Medium (12) Controls

• Ensure the workpiece is securely clamped to the drill table before commencing drilling operations.
• Use a vice or appropriate fixture to hold irregularly shaped workpieces firmly in place.
• Regularly inspect clamps and fixtures for wear or damage, replacing them as necessary to maintain secure holding.
• Adjust the drill speed and feed rate according to the material being drilled to minimise the risk of ejection.
• Train operators on the correct use of clamping devices and the importance of securing workpieces.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Dust Inhalation : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Machine Operators | Workshop Technicians | Maintenance Personnel | Nearby Workers

Type of harm: Asbestosis / Lung Cancer / Mesothelioma | Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Occasional (3) = Medium (9) Controls

• Ensure the use of a local exhaust ventilation system to capture dust at the source during drilling operations.
• Provide and enforce the use of appropriate respiratory protective equipment, such as dust masks or respirators, for operators.
• Regularly clean and maintain the work area to prevent accumulation of dust on surfaces.
• Use a wet drilling technique, if applicable, to minimise dust generation.
• Conduct regular air quality monitoring to assess dust levels and ensure they remain within safe limits.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

COSHH Assessment : Use of a Pillar Drill

Metal dust

Metal dust is not intended for use but is an incidental byproduct generated during the drilling process, requiring appropriate control measures to mitigate inhalation and contact risks.

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Inhalation : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Machine operators | Workshop technicians | Maintenance personnel

Type of harm: Asbestosis / Lung Cancer / Mesothelioma | Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Frequent (5) = Medium (15) Controls

• Use local exhaust ventilation systems to capture metal dust at the source.
• Provide and ensure the use of appropriate respiratory protective equipment, such as dust masks or respirators.
• Implement regular cleaning schedules to remove accumulated dust from work areas.
• Ensure proper maintenance and operation of dust extraction equipment.
• Conduct air quality monitoring to assess dust levels and effectiveness of controls.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Eye Contact : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Machine operators | Maintenance personnel | Nearby workers

Type of harm: Eye Damage

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Probable (4) = Medium (12) Controls

• Wear safety goggles or a face shield to prevent metal dust from entering the eyes.
• Ensure proper ventilation or use local exhaust systems to reduce airborne metal dust.
• Implement regular cleaning procedures to minimise accumulation of metal dust in the work area.
• Provide training on the correct use and maintenance of personal protective equipment.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Skin Contact : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Machine operators

Type of harm: Dermatitis

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Occasional (3) = Medium (9) Controls

• Wear appropriate protective gloves to prevent direct contact with metal dust.
• Use long-sleeved clothing to minimise skin exposure to metal dust.
• Implement regular cleaning procedures to remove metal dust from work surfaces.
• Provide washing facilities for workers to clean skin after exposure.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

Cutting fluid

Cutting fluid is intended to cool and lubricate the drill bit and workpiece during drilling operations, reducing friction and heat generation.

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Inhalation : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Machine operators | Maintenance personnel | Nearby workers

Type of harm: Asbestosis / Lung Cancer / Mesothelioma | Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD | Smoke Inhalation

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Frequent (5) = Medium (15) Controls

• Ensure adequate ventilation in the workshop to disperse fumes.
• Use local exhaust ventilation systems to capture and remove airborne contaminants.
• Provide respiratory protective equipment, such as masks, when necessary.
• Regularly maintain and service ventilation systems to ensure effectiveness.
• Store cutting fluids in sealed containers to minimise vapour release.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Eye Contact : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Machine operators | Maintenance personnel

Type of harm: Eye Damage

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Occasional (3) = Medium (15) Controls

• Wear safety goggles or face shields to prevent fluid splashes into the eyes.
• Ensure proper ventilation to reduce airborne mist from cutting fluids.
• Use drip trays or splash guards to contain fluid splatter during drilling.
• Regularly inspect and maintain equipment to prevent leaks and spills.
• Provide eye wash stations nearby for immediate rinsing in case of contact.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Skin Contact : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Machine operators | Maintenance personnel

Type of harm: Dermatitis

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Frequent (5) = High (20) Controls

• Wear appropriate protective gloves to prevent direct skin contact with cutting fluid.
• Use barrier creams to provide an additional layer of protection against skin exposure.
• Ensure proper ventilation to reduce the concentration of airborne cutting fluid mist.
• Implement regular cleaning procedures to remove cutting fluid residues from work surfaces.
• Provide training on safe handling and disposal of cutting fluids to minimise exposure risks.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

Lubricating oil

Lubricating oil is intended to reduce friction and heat generation between the drill bit and the workpiece, thereby enhancing the efficiency and lifespan of the drilling equipment.

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Inhalation : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Machine operators

Type of harm: Asbestosis / Lung Cancer / Mesothelioma | Asphyxia | Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD | Smoke Inhalation

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Probable (4) = Medium (16) Controls

• Ensure adequate ventilation in the work area to disperse any vapours.
• Use local exhaust ventilation systems to capture and remove airborne contaminants.
• Store lubricating oil in tightly sealed containers to prevent vapour release.
• Implement regular maintenance of ventilation systems to ensure optimal performance.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Ingestion : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Machine operators

Type of harm: Illness | Death

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Occasional (3) = Medium (9) Controls

• Ensure that all containers of lubricating oil are clearly labelled to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Implement a strict no eating or drinking policy in areas where lubricating oil is used or stored.
• Provide training to workers on the hazards of ingesting lubricating oil and safe handling practises.
• Ensure that handwashing facilities are readily available and encourage workers to wash hands thoroughly after handling lubricating oil.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Eye Contact : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Machine operators | Maintenance personnel

Type of harm: Eye Damage

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Occasional (3) = Medium (12) Controls

• Wear safety goggles to prevent lubricating oil splashes from reaching the eyes.
• Ensure proper training on handling lubricating oil to minimise accidental splashes.
• Use a drip tray or absorbent materials to catch excess oil and prevent splashes.
• Maintain a clean work area to reduce the risk of oil splatter.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Skin Contact : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Machine operators | Maintenance personnel

Type of harm: Dermatitis

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Frequent (5) = High (20) Controls

• Wear appropriate protective gloves to prevent direct skin contact with lubricating oil.
• Use barrier creams to provide an additional layer of protection on exposed skin.
• Ensure proper handwashing facilities are available and used after handling lubricating oil.
• Implement spill containment measures to prevent accidental skin exposure.
• Provide training on safe handling procedures and the importance of personal protective equipment.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

Toolbox Talk : Use of a Pillar Drill

Introduction

The use of a pillar drill in an engineering workshop involves the precise and controlled drilling of holes into metal workpieces. This task requires the operator to securely position the workpiece on the adjustable table, select the appropriate drill bit, and adjust the drill speed to match the material and drilling requirements. The aim is to achieve accurate and clean holes while maintaining safety and efficiency throughout the process. Proper handling and operation of the pillar drill are essential to ensure the integrity of the workpiece and the safety of the operator.

Hazards

The use of a pillar drill in an engineering workshop presents several hazards that must be carefully managed. Entanglement is a significant risk, as loose clothing, jewellery, or long hair can become caught in the moving parts of the drill. The operation of the drill generates flying debris and metal shards, posing a danger to the eyes and necessitating the use of appropriate eye protection. There is also a risk of fingers or hands coming into contact with the rotating drill bit, which can result in serious injury. Noise levels produced by the drill can contribute to hearing damage over time, making hearing protection essential. Electrical hazards are present if the equipment is not properly grounded, increasing the risk of electric shock. The workpiece may slip or be ejected if not securely clamped, leading to potential injury. Additionally, dust and fumes generated during drilling can be inhaled, posing respiratory risks.

Use of a Pillar Drill : Rules

• Do wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including safety goggles and hearing protection.
• Do ensure that loose clothing, jewellery, and long hair are secured to prevent entanglement.
• Do inspect the drill and its components for any damage or defects before use.
• Do ensure the workpiece is securely clamped or held in place to prevent movement during drilling.
• Do select the correct drill bit and speed setting for the material being drilled.
• Do maintain a clean and organised work area, free from obstructions and debris.
• Do use a brush or tool to remove swarf and debris from the drill area, not hands.
• Do ensure the drill is properly grounded to prevent electric shock.
• Do follow the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines for safe operation.
• Do report any faults or malfunctions to a supervisor immediately.

Use of a Pillar Drill : Warnings

• Do not wear loose clothing, jewellery, or long hair untied when operating the drill.
• Do not operate the drill without appropriate eye protection.
• Do not use the drill without securing the workpiece properly.
• Do not attempt to adjust the drill or workpiece while the machine is running.
• Do not leave the drill unattended while it is in operation.
• Do not use the drill if it is damaged or malfunctioning.
• Do not exceed the recommended speed settings for the material being drilled.
• Do not apply excessive force to the drill bit; let the machine do the work.
• Do not operate the drill without ensuring it is properly grounded.
• Do not ignore noise levels; use hearing protection if necessary.

Induction Record

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Subject:	Risk Assessment and Method Statement : Use of a Pillar Drill	Tutor:
Date:		Signature:

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