Machines have guards and shields that minimize the exposure of workers to moving parts. Tool and die makers, however, must follow safety rules and wear protective equipment. For example, they must wear safety glasses in order to shield against bits of flying metal and earplugs to protect against noise. They may be exposed to hazardous materials such as lubricants or cleaners. In addition, they spend much of the day on their feet and may do moderately heavy lifting.
Companies employing tool and die makers traditionally operate one shift per day.
However, as the cost of new machinery and technology has increased, many employers now have more than one shift. Overtime and Saturday work are common, especially during peak production periods. Employment About 138,000 persons were employed as tool and die makers in 1992. Most worked in industries that manufacture metalworking machinery and equipment, motor vehicles, aircraft, and plastics products. Although they are found throughout the country, jobs are most plentiful in the Midwest and Northeast, where many of the metalworking industries are located.