This printed sticker is a precautionary note that recommends all potential users of the machine in question to equip appropriate protection. It functions through its adhesive quality, being applied directly onto the machine to ensure that their relationship is not lost to any viewer.
Given the fact that this device, an electrically powered metal cutting saw, is located within a classroom setting that involves the manipulation of physical materials for the creation of three-dimensional art, this note is intended for students attending any and all courses relating to this classroom. It passively participates in class instruction, in that it gives students context on appropriate protection during the creation process. This is especially helpful to students who may have never encountered this machine in their lives before. The room itself also serves as a resource for any individuals, students or otherwise, who wish to manipulate metal materials for their projects, so this note can extend beyond a classroom context and serve as a simple reminder to anyone attempting to cut metal materials with this devise.
This note was created out of a desire to deliver this important precaution on its own, transcending the need for an experienced operator to attend the room at all times for this one instruction. The stark contrast of the bright yellow sticker against the cool metal surface catches the viewer's attention, directing their eyes to the text that in turn boldly contrasts against the yellow sticker. Using tape paper to install the message right onto the machine completes the communication between note and viewer by physically connecting the note to the context it is intended for. In short, all of these elements were chosen to maximize its visibility in the environment. Any signs of wear are very minimal on this note, the biggest details being the slightly curled upper-left and lower-right corners of the note. It remains in good condition since its installation and has retained its intended effect, but these small signs of wear may prelude future degradation, and thus produce a requirement for a replacement note.
The idea behind this note is to communicate, indirectly, the potential dangers of the machine. Asking that users wear eye protection when handling the machine implies the possibility of loose materials or sparks launching from any projects being handled on the machine. Without prior knowledge, it is not actually obvious that the machine is intended to cut metal, but its saw blade instantly communicates its function as a cutter. The design problem that this note addresses is defining the scale of the potential work hazards this device entails, and doing so without requiring a human presence.
The idea at work here is commendable and necessary, but on its own it is still ineffectual because it does nothing to actually prevent users from potentially handling the machine without proper protection. This is especially true if professionals or frequent users themselves don't use protection around the machine, thus mitigating the supposed danger that the note implies. People can assess that the dangers are worth the risks, since they are only a hazard so long as they are operating the devise.
A potential solution needs to follow the same fundamental rationale of this note: communicate the dangers and solutions in a way that negates the need for a human presence to deliver the message. Perhaps the note should be more overt of bad consequences, like permanent damage to the eyes as a result of shrapnel or sparks. Maybe the consequences should be more long-term and go beyond the temporary experience of using the machine. The Department responsible for this machine could deliver repercussions for mishandling of this equipment, with the note giving a short, concise warning that any user not wearing goggles may be fined or removed from the privilege of using this machine. These examples, however, are examples of negative reinforcement as a tool to manipulate behavior, which is not always adhered to and can potentially generate an antagonistic attitude towards the machine.
The only long-term and most obvious solution ultimately relies on human involvement and goes beyond the note, highlighting its ineffectiveness: that users exercise responsibility with the machine and that instructors give the necessary precautions and help to any student using it.
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