Have any helpful maker tips? Send them my way!

Safety

Daniel, did you want some less fun ideas as well?

Eye Safety

(1) If you purchase any high-power non-visible wavelength components then ensure they are kept marked up as such (and kept away from junior makers). A powerful IR diode can look identical to a visible wavelength version - you wouldn't want it shining into your eyes accidentally for sustained periods whilst working out why it hasn't illuminated.

(2) Be careful of long exposure or close proximity to 'decorative' LEDs such as the Neopixels/WS2812 e.g. whilst on the bench in front of you. They may not damage the eyes permanently but they can be uncomfortably bright.

(3) Whilst most maker tasks seem quite benign the wearing of eye protection should be a consideration: for anything that could involve flying particles of metal, molten solder or other chippings/materials. I've flicked molten solder in my face before from a multistrand cable I was desoldering as it released from the connector. Pounding a cold chisel really does 'work harden' then end until it shatters like glass - I've had bits fly off 30ft away. I've had many of the wires from an angle grinder's wire brush get flung out and embedded in my legs - it hurts but if that was in your eye it would blind you.

Respiratory Safety

(1) If sanding anything down - use a suitably rated protective mask and/or dust extraction.

(2) Soldering - solder fumes seem to get drawn towards the face (not sure why). At the very least aim for some cross-flow of ventilation. Get a cheap fan to blow it away, a cheap bathroom ventilation fan and ducting to pull the fumes away and to the outside, a fume extractor system. Even a basic kitchen cooker hood with carbon filter would help.

Ear Protection

(1) Probably not a huge issue for makers. But if you are generating a monotonous tone at medium levels you may find then affecting your short term hearing after a few hours of testing! A simple pair of ear defenders would mitigate against that.

Sharps

(1) Keep retractable knife blades retracted between uses. Keep fixed blades (eg scalpels) in a heavy pot with the blade pointing down.

(2) Take drill bits out of drill chucks (pillar drills and handheld drills) when not being used.

(3) Use a jam jar or tin for old worn out blades and other sharp items. When it is getting full, screw the lid on and dispose of safety into the dustbin.

Housekeeping

(1) A messy bench or desk can lead to injuries - often as cables get caught/burnt/knocking things over. A frequent tidy up helps.

(2) Keep chemicals in their original containers - label if required. Keep in a safe place if children are around.

Rod

And finally mark up your soldering iron with "hot end" / "cold end"

Absolutely, everyone needs to come home safe from work every day, including if they're working at home!

Absolutely, everyone needs to come home safe from work every day, including if they're working at home!