Equipment Categories and Supervision

Three categories, one question

Every piece of equipment in the lab is Category 1, 2 or 3. The category answers one question: who has to be present before you switch it on?

Permission from an instructor is required in every case. What changes between categories is when that permission can be given, and who has to be in the room while the machine is running.

Category 1

Permission may be given in advance. Work alone once you have it.

Category 2

Permission at the time of use. A peer must be present throughout.

Category 3

Permission at the time of use. A peer and an instructor must be present throughout.

The category never removes a requirement. General safety procedures and PPE apply to every category, to every person present — see Equipment Operating Procedure and Personal Protective Equipment.

Category 1

• Can be used with instructor permission — may be given in advance or at the time of use.
• Can be operated independently, without peer or instructor supervision, once permission is granted.
• You must still follow all general safety procedures and PPE requirements.

Category 2

• Can be used with instructor permission — permission must be given at the time of use.
• Does not require instructor supervision during operation.
• Requires peer supervision present at all times during use.
• Both the operator and the peer supervisor must follow all safety procedures and PPE requirements.