Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC) Safety Assessment Practice Test

When drilling a hole in a part using a drill press, which action is the safest?

1. Always firmly clamp the part

2. Wear loose clothing

3. Hold the part by hand

4. Use motor oil as a lubricant

The correct answer is: Always firmly clamp the part

The safest action when drilling a hole in a part using a drill press is to always firmly clamp the part. Clamping the workpiece provides stability and prevents it from moving during the drilling process, which is crucial for both accuracy and safety. If the part is not secured, it can shift unexpectedly, leading to potential accidents, such as injury to the operator or damage to the equipment. Proper stability allows for greater control over the drill, minimizes vibrations, and helps to maintain a consistent drilling depth. The use of clamps is a fundamental safety measure in machining operations, promoting a secure working environment where the risk of the workpiece moving or causing harm is significantly reduced. Other options like wearing loose clothing can increase the risk of entanglement in machinery, holding the part by hand lacks the necessary control and stability, and using motor oil as a lubricant may not be appropriate unless specifically recommended for the material being drilled, further complicating safe operation.