1. Identify and outline these sub-sub-strands:
   • General safety rules and regulations
   • Interpretation of workshop safety signs
   • Risk behaviours in a workshop environment
   • Safe use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
   • Importance of safety in a power mechanics environment
2. Describe general safety rules and regulations in a power mechanics workshop.
3. Interpret workshop safety signs used in a power mechanics environment.
4. Explain risk behaviours in a workshop environment.
5. Practise safe use of personal protective equipment (PPE) in a power mechanics workshop.
6. Appreciate the need for safety while working in a power mechanics work environment.

1. General Safety Rules & Regulations

Follow these simple rules every time you enter the workshop. They protect you, your classmates and equipment.

• Always wear required PPE (safety boots, goggles, gloves, ear protection, apron) before working.
• Know the location of exits, fire extinguishers, first-aid kit, and emergency assembly point.
• Keep work areas clean and tidy — clear oil, tools and scrap metals immediately.
• Work only on machines you have been shown and authorised to use.
• Switch off machines and isolate power before cleaning, adjusting or repairing (lock-out/tag-out where used).
• Do not use damaged tools or equipment — report them to the instructor immediately.
• No running, playing or horseplay in the workshop.
• Follow chemical and fuel handling rules: store flammables safely, use funnels, and clean spills promptly.
• Observe local laws and school rules — note the Occupational Safety and Health Act (Kenya) 2007 principles: duty of care and safe workplace practice.

2. Interpretation of Workshop Safety Signs

Common sign types you must recognise and follow:

Tip: If you see a red circle with a diagonal line — it's a prohibition. A yellow triangle means danger. Blue circles tell you what you must wear or do. Green signs show escape routes and safety equipment.

3. Risk Behaviours in a Workshop

Understand what causes accidents so you can avoid them:

• Horseplay and distractions — cause slips, trips, falls and tool misuse.
• Complacency — ignoring rules because “it’s quick” or “I’ve done it many times”.
• Working without permission or supervision on unfamiliar machines.
• Using mobile phones while operating equipment.
• Improper use of tools (using the wrong tool, makeshift repairs).
• Poor housekeeping — oil, loose nuts/bolts and scrap left on the floor.
• Ignoring PPE, or using PPE that is damaged or ill-fitting.

4. Safe Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Common PPE and how to use them safely:

• Safety boots: Wear at all times in the workshop. Check for worn soles or broken toes.
• Safety goggles/face shield: Protect eyes from sparks, metal chips and fluids. Clean and store in a case.
• Gloves: Use cut-resistant gloves for sharp objects; do not wear loose gloves near rotating parts.
• Ear protection: Plugs or earmuffs for noisy machines. Use whenever noise is above safe levels.
• Respirator/mask: Use when grinding, painting or working with harmful dust/fumes.
• Apron/overalls: Protect clothing and skin from hot sparks, oils and chemicals.

Always inspect PPE before use. Replace damaged items — do not improvise.

5. Why Safety Matters — Importance in Power Mechanics

• Prevents injuries and saves lives — fewer hospital visits and less time off school/work.
• Protects tools and workshop equipment from damage.
• Improves quality of work and productivity — safer workers work better and faster.
• Builds good habits for future jobs — employers in Kenya value safety-aware apprentices.
• Meets legal and school requirements (e.g., Occupational Safety and Health principles in Kenya).

Suggested Learning Experiences (Kenyan context, age 15)

1. Teacher demonstration: Walkthrough of workshop — point out exits, fire equipment, first aid, PPE station and electrical isolators.
2. Sign-matching activity: Give students cards with sign images and meanings. Work in groups to match and present real workshop examples.
3. Hazard hunt: Small teams inspect the school workshop (or simulated area), list hazards, suggest fixes and present findings.
4. PPE drill: Practice wearing correct PPE for tasks (grinding, filing, handling fuel). Teacher inspects and marks correct use.
5. Role-play scenarios: One student acts as injured worker; others practise first aid steps and safe reporting procedures.
6. Guest speaker: Invite a local mechanic or county workplace safety officer to share real-life examples and enforcement of safety rules.
7. Poster & slogan contest: Create simple posters about workshop safety in English or Kiswahili for display around the school.
8. Fire drill & extinguisher practice (under supervision): Learn how to use a dry chemical extinguisher safely.

Assessment Tasks / Classroom Checks

• Written quiz: List 6 general safety rules and explain why each is important.
• Practical: Demonstrate correct PPE for grinding and explain removal and storage steps.
• Sign test: Identify 8 workshop safety signs and give an example of when each applies.
• Group report: Present the hazard hunt results and an action plan to fix the top 3 hazards.

Student Quick Checklist (Before You Start Work)

• I have the right PPE and it is in good condition.
• I know where emergency exits and fire equipment are located.
• The work area is clean and free of obstructions.
• I am authorised and trained to use this tool/machine.
• I know what to do if there is an accident or spill.