Metal and Plastic Processing Workers is in the Manufacturing and Processing Career Cluster. Worker Characteristics Ability to see details in objects, such as finished products Ability to move hands easily and skillfully, as when operating machines Ability to operate machines with precision Ability to coordinate the movement of eyes and hands while working Willingness to perform the same tasks over and over Physical Demands Frequently need to see nearby objects clearly, such as a control panel Frequently use arms and hands to reach for and handle objects Frequently use fingers to pick up small objects or push buttons Occasionally lift objects that weigh up to 50 pounds Occasionally need tell the difference between colors Occasionally need to judge the distance between objects Occasionally need to hear people well, as well as the sounds of the machines Occasionally use fingers to examine the size, shape, temperature, or texture of an object Occasionally stoop and crouch while working Work Setting Metal and plastic processing workers work indoors. Those who work in steel mills are exposed to intense heat. However, with modernization, some processes can be controlled from a separate room. All metal and plastic processing workers may be exposed to loud noises from machinery.
Machines now perform many tasks which used to require strength.
Steel processing can be dangerous. Thus workers wear hard hats, safety shoes, earplugs, as well as protective glasses and clothing. Metal and plastic processing workers are occasionally exposed to fumes, dust, and poor ventilation. Some mills and processing plants run 24 hours a day. Thus some workers have evening or night shifts.