Sheet Metal Workers
Sheet metal workers fabricate and install ductwork, roofing, siding and architectural metal. Cuts are constant, and much of the work is overhead or at height.
- Construction
- Fabrication
Photo: sheet metal worker hanging duct from a scissor lift
Top hazards
- Lacerations from sharp edges and burrs
- Falls from lifts, ladders and roofs
- Overhead work strains when hanging duct
- Shop machinery: shears, brakes, rollers
- Welding fumes and noise
Key practices
- Wear cut-resistant gloves and sleeves (ANSI cut level appropriate for the task).
- Use duct lifts and material hoists for heavy runs.
- Keep guards on shop machinery and lock out for adjustments.
- Use guardrails and fall protection on roofs.
- Deburr edges and dispose of scrap promptly.
See also: Tin Snips, Scissor Lifts, Machine Guarding.
In the shop
- Shears: keep fingers out of the blade area; use hold-downs and guards.
- Press brakes: use light curtains, two-hand controls or safe distances; never put your hands between the dies.
- Rollers and seamers: watch for nip points that can pull in gloves and fingers.
- Plasma cutting and welding: fumes from galvanized metal can cause metal fume fever. Use ventilation.
See Machine Guarding and Power Presses.
In the field
- Hang duct with lifts, not by holding sections overhead on a ladder.
- Use powder-actuated tools and anchors that are rated for hanging duct, installed correctly. See Powder-Actuated Tools.
- Watch for live wiring and sprinkler pipe when drilling overhead.
- On roofs, metal panels act like sails in wind and are slippery when wet or frosty.
Cuts
Sheet metal edges can cut through ordinary gloves. Choose cut-resistant gloves and sleeves rated for the task, deburr edges, and carry sheets with the edges away from your body. Treat deep cuts with direct pressure and get care. See Hand Protection.
Job checklist
- Cut-resistant gloves and sleeves on
- Shop machine guards and interlocks working
- Duct lift or hoist for heavy runs
- Fall protection plan for roofs and edges
- Ventilation for welding and cutting galvanized steel
- Hearing protection near shop machines
Standards & references
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