While magnets are capable of remarkable tasks, like lifting cars or moving trains, they typically pose little threat to the average human — when handled properly. The same is true when multiple smaller magnets are used in close proximity. Because they’re so busy acting upon each other’s magnetic fields, they don’t combine to create an extreme outward force. 

What to Watch For

Magnets do occasionally cause injury, but there are ways to stay safe. Here’s what you should watch for: 1. Pinching. When a magnet attracts another magnet or a piece of metal, it’s possible for skin to get caught in between. With more powerful magnets, breaks or fractures can occur. Best practices: Wear heavy protective gloves and be aware of your surroundings. If there are other magnets or metals around, move them before handling your magnet. 2. Fire. If two powerful magnets collide, they can create sparks. This could be enough to ignite airborne dust, like from metal drilling. Best practices: Keep the atmosphere clear of dust and other combustibles, and maintain fire extinguishers nearby. Be aware of your surroundings to prevent collisions. 3. Pacemakers. People with pacemakers or implantable defibrillators should keep their distance from magnets because the magnets could interfere, causing heart issues. Best practices: Keep signs up to alert passersby magnets are in use. Alert employees so they are aware of the risk.  4. Breaking. Any sudden impact, like from two magnets colliding, can cause a magnet to break or chip, sending debris flying. This can lead to cuts or other injuries. Best practices: Wear eye protection and keep arms and legs covered whenever you’re handling magnets. Before use, inspect them for any faults in the plating. 5. Swallowing. It should go without saying that swallowing magnets is a bad idea, but mistakes happen. Curious children may eat them, and even some adults swallow magnets in earrings or necklaces when they use their mouths as an extra hand. Magnets are especially dangerous when you have two or more inside your stomach. Together, they can attract and pinch, doing serious internal damage which could require immediate surgery. Best practices: Keep children away from magnets, and never put them in your mouth. 6. Nickel allergies. Nickel is a common magnet plating material in part because it’s inexpensive and ferrous. However, frequent contact with metal can create allergies in some handlers. Best practices: Wear heavy work gloves to avoid developing a nickel allergy. If you already have a nickel allergy, avoid nickel-plated magnets. Another solution: use magnets with a different plating. 7. Data and electronics. While not a physical danger, magnets can corrupt information stored on hard drives or tapes, and they can also interfere in other electronics, like televisions. Best practice: Keep electronics that store data away from magnets. In addition, prevent magnets and other electronics from getting too close as they may interfere with screens and monitors.

Further Precautions

For projects where magnets are involved, use a gaussmeter to check individual magnet strength and a Hall sensor to check pull. This may help you find locations where magnetic pull is stronger than normal. In addition, train employees so they understand how to properly handle magnets. Don’t allow anyone near the magnets without the training. Supply employees with proper personal protective equipment, like gloves and safety glasses. Finally, warn people magnets are in use with obvious signage. When you understand magnet safety, magnets can be powerful and useful tools. Check Apex’s product line for a variety of reliable magnets to suit your needs.