Final answer:
Operators must inspect equipment for safety and function before use, adhering to checklists like the WHO surgical checklist. Upon discovering an unsafe condition, immediate cessation of use and reporting to a supervisor are required. Adherence to OSHA standards and safety protocols helps ensure safe equipment operation, especially in laboratory environments.
Step-by-step explanation:
Before putting equipment into use, an operator must carefully inspect the equipment and ensure it is functioning correctly and safely. This involves checking the device for any signs of damage or malfunction, verifying that all safety guards or mechanisms are in place, and that the equipment is clean and ready for use. Additionally, operators are often required to review any provided checklists, such as the WHO surgical checklist, to help reduce workplace accidents and confirm all safety measures are met.
If an operator discovers any unsafe condition, they must immediately cease using the equipment and report the condition to a supervisor or responsible authority. In the case of a laboratory or medical setting, the operator should follow the established protocol for such situations, which often includes filling out an accident report if someone is hurt, notifying the teacher or supervisor if materials are damaged or discarded, and ensuring that no further use of the equipment occurs until the issue has been addressed.
Entities like OSHA have mandated standards for workplace safety, which include providing safety training, keeping accurate records of work-related injuries and illnesses, and notifying OSHA within specific timeframes for serious workplace incidents. Safety training and adherence to protocols play vital roles in mitigating risks associated with the operation of equipment, especially in settings like laboratories where sharp objects, chemicals, heat, and electricity are present.