A couple weeks ago a couple guys were cutting some steel for their project.
Despite our previous class discussion about the proper use of the hacksaw, including specific instruction on how fast to be cutting with it, two guys decide it would be more efficient if they used the hacksaw like a Two-Man Saw.
I found it amusing, poked a bit of fun at them, complimented them on their resourcefulness and teamwork, and decided correcting them wasn't my battle.
A few moments later I saw them cutting furiously, one on each end of the hacksaw, and while I knew they were dulling the blade, they were exhausting themselves. We'll have a chat after they ruin the blade and wear themselves out.
I'm helping a few other students when one of the boys come over with the exciting conversation starter: "how do I stop this from bleeding?" I admit I hadn't anticipated this outcome.
Normally, when you are sawing and the saw blade slips out of the groove and comes down on your hand, you usually lighten up on the stroke and express some dismay such as "oh bother!" Unfortunately, in this case, the fellow on the other side of the saw was still yanking on the hacksaw furiously.
"Ooh. Let me see that. You're going to need some stitches. Let's clean it up, wrap it and hold it really tight - keep pressure on it. Now go see the first aid guy, and you..." pointing to his buddy ".... make sure he gets there.
Three stitches later.... "So what did we learn today?" I ask.
I took a picture of his stitched hand so I can add it to my safety PowerPoint. "Learn from the mistakes of others" I say.
