Hello All, 

I wanted to revisit this conversation. My institution is currently in the process of acquiring equipment needed to start the retrofitting process for an Engineering Lab featuring the use of a lathe/mill, drill press, bench grinder, and band saw. Given that the lab will be utilizing wood, metal, and plastic, would using a dust collector suffice for removing combustible dust associated with the woodwork? Or would it be necessary to have an exhaust fan within the room? Furthermore, does periodic testing by an Industrial Hygienist need to be performed at regular intervals? We also intend on purchasing a mist collector. Please advise as we want to be sure we have the engineering controls necessary to handle our scope of work. Thanks!

On Wed, Jun 3, 2026 at 9:26 AM Filiberto Palacios <fpalacios**At_Symbol_Here**apu.edu> wrote:

Hello,

I am reaching out to ask if anyone has expertise in Shop Safety. Specifically, my institution is looking into retrofitting a room to accommodate the following engineering equipment: CNC, drill press, bench grinder, band saw, lathe/mill, and welder.

The shop will be equipped for working with wood, plastic, and metal. As someone who has little experience in the Shop Safety field, I’d mainly like to know any relevant safety regulations which we must abide to and any nuances with regard to selection of Personal Protective Equipment. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks! 

Best,

Filiberto Palacios, MPH, CPH  |  Laboratory and Research Safety Officer
Division of Academic Affairs, Department of Biology and Chemistry, Azusa Pacific University
Azusa Pacific University PO Box 7000, Azusa, CA 91702-7000
(626) 815-6072 Ext. 6072  |  apu.edu

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing, and perfect will.” Romans 12:2

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Best,

Filiberto Palacios, MPH, CPH  |  Laboratory and Research Safety Officer
Division of Academic Affairs, Department of Biology and Chemistry, Azusa Pacific University
Azusa Pacific University PO Box 7000, Azusa, CA 91702-7000
(626) 815-6072 Ext. 6072  |  apu.edu

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing, and perfect will.” Romans 12:2

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