Safety Practices, Hazard Risks, and Standard Operating Procedure Compliance: A Study on Mechanical Engineering Students

Abstract

Accidents, in general, can occur anywhere regardless of place and time. However, the risk of accidents may be reduced if preventive measures are taken early. This study was conducted to identify safety practices and hazard risks among students during practical classes in the Machine Workshop, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Politeknik Ungku Omar, Ipoh, Perak, involving students who utilize this workshop. A questionnaire survey method was used to collect relevant information and data from 98 respondents, consisting of students. The analysis revealed that 99% of respondents had never been involved in any accidents while in the workshop, 100% wore appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when operating machines, 98.4% stated that they were given safety reminders and briefings before starting activities, and 84.2% of respondents believed that the existing safety measures were adequate. For hazard risk assessment, machine-related hazards were identified as the highest risk at 39.1%, followed by Fire and Explosion hazards (32.8%), Electrical hazards (20.3%), Slip/Trip/Fall hazards (15.6%), Lighting issues (10.9%), and 9.4% for Noise, Indoor Air Quality, and Dust Particles. In addition, 74.1% of respondents felt safe from accidents while conducting practical activities in the workshop, whereas 4.7% felt it was unsafe regarding potential accidents involving themselves. Therefore, greater emphasis and focus should be placed on the correct and safe use of machine equipment as well as strict adherence to established safety measures to enhance students’ confidence in workshop safety, thereby reducing the likelihood of accidents occurring.