A machinist is a skilled worker who can set up and use machine tools to modify workpieces typically made of metal. These machine tools allow a machinist to perform operations such as turning, boring, milling, and grinding.
Their main duties include:
duty Reading and interpreting technical drawings, charts, and specifications.
duty Calculating dimensions and preparing sketches as necessary.
duty Setting up and using the right machine tools for the job.
duty Taking measurements to ensure accuracy of work (using tools such as micrometers and vernier callipers).
duty Lifting and moving workpieces.
duty Performing maintenance work on machine tools.
duty Performing housekeeping to ensure a tidy workplace.
safety Injuries resulting from the operation of metalworking machines, including cuts, crushing, amputations, pinches, burns, and being struck by projectiles.
physical Noise from machine operation or within the machine shop that can result in auditory effects.
physical Vibration that can cause health effects.
general Exposure to hazardous products, including metalworking fluids, which can result in health effects such as allergic reactions and contact dermatitis.
chemical Respiratory effects from exposure to chemicals, dust, fumes, and other hazards in the air.
ergonomic Pain, injury, or musculoskeletal disorders from physical overexertion and manual materials handling, including repetitive manual tasks, prolonged standing, heavy lifting, or working in awkward positions.
psychosocial Extended workdays or shift work based on demands (such as short turnaround projects).
psychosocial Stress from meeting work demands and deadlines, ensuring the accuracy of work, etc.
safety Slips, trips, and falls from clutter, trailing cords, and spills.
psychosocial Workplace harassment or violence.
general Heat-related illnesses, especially if ventilation is not adequate.
To mitigate these risks, machinists should:
administrative Ensure that the tools and machines are in good working order before use, including conducting inspections and verifying that regular maintenance has been completed.
requirement Use proper manual material handling (MMH) techniques when moving workpieces and other heavy items. If possible, get assistance from other workers or use mechanical aids (please refer to MMH - Mechanical Aids for Transporting Materials – I, MMH - Mechanical Aids for Transporting Materials - II, and MMH - Mechanical Aids: Levers and Rollers to learn more).
requirement Take breaks throughout the day, especially when work involves a lot of repetitive motions and awkward postures.
administrative Rotate tasks, if possible, to avoid using the same body parts repeatedly.
requirement Follow good ergonomic practices at all times, including when working in a standing position.
requirement Ensure that tools and machines are deenergized when taking breaks or after finishing work.
administrative Follow lockout/tagout procedures when maintaining or servicing machines.
requirement Stay hydrated if in a hot environment.
engineering Make sure that ventilation is appropriate to reduce the risks of heat stress and hazards in the air.
administrative Report all hazards and incidents to management.
administrative Participate in all health and safety training and education, including on topics such as the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS), safe work procedures, emergency response, etc.
requirement Review the safety data sheet (SDS) of any hazardous products in the machine shop.
requirement Do not wear loose clothing, jewellery, or other things that could get caught in machinery.
requirement Confine or otherwise avoid having loose long hair that could get caught in machinery.
administrative Practice good housekeeping and keep areas clear of clutter and slip hazards.
requirement Impact-resistant eye and face protectors
ppe Hearing protectors such as earplugs or earmuffs
ppe Safety footwear that can provide protection from dropped objects, slips, and falls
ppe Gloves with cut and chemical resistance (depends on hazards workers are exposed to) provided that the gloves do not pose a further hazard (such as loss of dexterity or being caught in moving machine parts)
ppe High-visibility apparel to increase visibility, especially when vehicles operate in the machine shop
requirement Headwear, if objects could hit the machinist’s head from the top or side
ppe Respirator
ppe Wear personal protective equipment (PPE) suitable to the task being completed. Refer to the safe work procedures, user manual, or a health and safety professional for guidance on appropriate PPE. PPE should be based on the hazards and may include:
requirement Understand how to use all machines and use them as directed by the manufacturer.
administrative Follow safe work procedures and comply with all regulations.
engineering Never operate equipment when the guards are not in place.
engineering Never bypass safety interlocks.
requirement Understand the three rights of workers and exercise the right to refuse work if it is likely to result in harm.
general Report any injury or illness immediately to the supervisor or manager.
administrative Report unsafe acts and unsafe conditions to the supervisor or manager.
administrative Know where the first aid equipment and first aiders are located and follow first aid procedures.
requirement Know the location of muster points and what to do in an emergency.
requirement Participate in the health and safety committee or as a representative.
requirement Fact sheet first published: 2026-08-21
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Notes for this occupation. Open one to read the practices and the protection it calls for.