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Book Arts Space: Pre-Visit Learning

The Book Arts Space at UVic Libraries supports letterpress printing, bookbinding, and other activities supporting research into historical and contemporary book arts. This Guide introduces basic health and safety information prior to a visit to the Book A

Platen Presses

  • Only one operator may use the press at a time.  All others must stay outside of the space identified around the press.
  • Do not put your fingers in a press that is closing. If you would like to stop a press with a treadle then use the throw lever. This is a space for learning; mistakes happen and do not try to correct them in a way that will cause you injury.   
  • Be very aware of open gears on presses and other pinch points.
  • For presses that are treadle-driven, think about treadle height and repetitive motion injuries. Shorter press persons may need a platform. Ensure your other foot does not get stuck between the treadle and the floor.   

 

Proofing Presses

  • Only one operator may use the press at a time.  All others must stay outside of the space identified around the press.
  • Do not put your hand under the cylinder.
  • Be aware of leaving stray things on the press bed, more to avoid damaging the press than damaging the operator.

Vandercook Proofing Press

Paper Cutters

  • Only authorized individuals can use the paper guillotines and board shear located in the space. They will be securely locked when not in use.  Certified users only on cutters. Having a spotter on the cutter. Only one person may operate this equipment at a time. All other people must stay outside of the area marked on the floor.
  • Be aware of where your fingers are at all times for both the hand operating the cutter as well as your other hand.   
  • Do not try to catch paper discards.  
  • On a guillotine, put the paper clamp all the way down—there should be no way to come in contact with the edge of the blade.  

Sharps

  • Ensure care around sharps, which include razors, X-acto, machinery blades, knife blades, cutters, sewing needles, awls for piercing, engraving tools, wood carving tools, leather skiving tools, and any other similar implements.
  • Ensure you cut away from yourself in order to prevent injury.
  • Ensure proper use and disposal of sharp blades.
  • Working slowly while rested mostly eliminates the risk of injury.

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This work by The University of Victoria Libraries is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License unless otherwise indicated when material has been used from other sources.