Safety

 Robotics can be stressful, so having a safe mentality is critical when it comes to decision making, especially when you don’t have long to react.  To take immediate action safely requires a clear head and the ability to stay calm.

 Some steps to stay calm include:  

• Taking deep breaths
• Drinking water
• Eating a snack

 In the event of a battery spill, the first thing to do is clear the area of people. Then you must identify the source of the fluid then put on the protective gear in your Battery Spill Kit.  Next you must contain the acid using a barrier found in the kit. Use baking soda also found in the kit to neutralize and absorb the spilled liquids.  Finally, dispose of the materials used into a plastic container which is also found in the spill kit.  

 There are many ways that a fire could start in the pits and on the field. While it is not required to have a fire extinguisher in your pit it is highly recommended that you do.  If a robot catches fire, immediately E-stop the robot (if enabled), power the robot off via the main breaker, and remove the battery (when safe to do so) and clear out anything else the flame could spread to.  If fire spreads to the building make sure someone alerts the local fire department with a 911 call 

 Lift the robot with two people—each person should be strong enough to handle the robot’s weight.  

• Use your legs, not your back. Keep your back straight.
• Don’t twist your body while lifting.
• Hold the robot using the proper hand holds so you don’t drop it.
• Bend your knees a little and tighten your stomach muscles before lifting.
• Keep the robot close to your body as you stand up.

 Keeping these steps in mind helps to keep both you and the robot safe 

Everyone must partake in the proper safety guidelines, whether you're a club member or a mentor. While at competition, everyone in the pits must be wearing safety glasses or goggles to protect their eyes from flying debris. other important safety equipment includes:  safety glasses with side  shields, goggles, face shields, and face masks. Certain safety equipment is needed for specific tasks such as chemical-resistant gloves when handling chemicals, acid-resistant rubber or plastic leak-proof gloves when handling a leaking battery, hearing protection when a tool or robot is making a loud noise, and wearing hair ties in long hair when using anything hair could be caught in.