Occupational Safety Training for Zither Manufacturing

1. Overview of the Zither

a. What is the Zither?

The zither has a long shape, usually made of wood and coated with a glossy finish. It has between 16 and 25 strings (most commonly 17 strings). Each string is stretched over movable bridges that can be adjusted to change the pitch.

The sound of the zither is very distinctive, gentle, melodious, and capable of expressing a wide range of emotions, from cheerful to melancholic.

Players use both hands to pluck the strings and press the frets. The right hand typically plucks the strings with fingernails or picks, while the left hand presses the frets to adjust pitch and create different sound effects such as vibrato and glissando.

The zither has existed for a long time and is an indispensable part of traditional Vietnamese music. It often appears in traditional music performances, festivals, and important ceremonies.

Today, the zither is not only used in traditional music but also by modern artists to perform contemporary works. The combination of the zither with other modern instruments creates unique and captivating music.

b. Machinery Used in Zither Production

• Table Saw: Used to cut large wooden boards into smaller blocks suitable for the size of the zither.
• Band Saw: Used to cut curved or complex parts of the zither frame.
• Surface Planer: To smooth and flatten wood surfaces, creating boards with uniform thickness.
• Edge Planer: Used to plane the edges of wood, ensuring smoothness and precision for small details.
• Drill Press: Used to drill holes in the zither frame where strings will be attached.
• CNC Drilling Machine: Programmed to drill holes with high precision, optimizing time and effort.
• CNC Milling Machine (Computer Numerical Control) is used for machining complex parts on the body and face of the zither. CNC technology allows for high precision and uniformity, improving the zither’s sound quality.
• Grinding Machine: Used to smooth sharp edges and polish wood surfaces after cutting and machining.
• Polishing Machine: To polish the surface of the zither, creating a smooth and attractive finish.
• Heat Press Machine is used to laminate wood layers together, ensuring strong and durable bonds between parts of the instrument.
• Paint Spraying Machine: Used to coat the zither’s surface, protecting the wood and giving it a glossy appearance.
• Paint Booth: Ensures the painting process takes place in a controlled environment free from dust and impurities.
• Sound Measuring Device: To test the sound quality of each zither after completion, ensuring every product meets quality standards.
• String Tension Meter: To check and adjust the tension of the strings, ensuring uniformity and sound quality.

c. Famous Zither Manufacturing Brands

1. Nhạc Cụ Việt

Nhạc Cụ Việt is a well-known brand in Vietnam specializing in traditional musical instruments, including the zither. With many years of experience, Nhạc Cụ Việt consistently ensures the quality and sound of their zithers, while incorporating modern elements in design and production.

2. Sơn Đông

The Sơn Đông brand is also a reputable zither manufacturer in Vietnam. Sơn Đông is famous for handcrafted zithers, paying attention to every small detail, ensuring delicate sound and comfortable playability.

3. Yamaha

Yamaha is a globally renowned brand in the musical instrument industry. Although Yamaha is not primarily a traditional zither manufacturer, they offer modern versions of zithers and similar string instruments. Yamaha products are known for high quality, durability, and excellent sound.

4. Suzuki

Suzuki is a famous Japanese brand producing quality musical instruments, including various zithers. Suzuki products are often highly rated for craftsmanship precision and clear, rich sound.

5. Hofner

Hofner is a well-known German instrument brand, famous for string instruments like guitars and basses. Though not specialized in zithers, Hofner offers similar high-quality instruments with beautiful designs.

6. Salvi

Salvi is a renowned brand producing harps and zithers. Salvi’s products are handcrafted using traditional techniques combined with modern technology, resulting in rich sound and high durability.

7. GuzhengFactory

GuzhengFactory is a Chinese brand specializing in guzheng, a type of Chinese zither. Their products often feature exquisite design, excellent sound quality, and are favored by professional artists.

8. Liuxi Guzheng

Liuxi Guzheng is another Chinese brand famous for producing high-quality guzheng. Liuxi Guzheng focuses on every detail, from wood selection to crafting techniques, ensuring each instrument has excellent sound and durability.

d. Specific Jobs in a Zither Manufacturing Factory

Group 1

• Executive director, deputy executive director, and department heads in the zither manufacturing factory.

Group 2

• Safety officers: manage factory safety, design safety procedures, supervise and urge workers to comply with safe work processes.

Group 3

• Sawyers: operate saw machines to cut wood into boards and blocks of appropriate sizes.
• Planers: use planing machines to smooth and flatten wood surfaces, ensuring uniform thickness.
• Milling Operators: operate CNC milling machines to machine complex parts on the body and face of the zither.
• Drillers: drill holes in the frame to attach strings.
• Carvers: use chisels to shape small and intricate parts.
• Assemblers: assemble parts of the zither including the frame, face, and other components.
• String Fitters: attach strings to the frame and adjust string tension to ensure correct sound.
• Grinders: smooth sharp edges and polish wood surfaces after cutting and machining.
• Polishers: polish the surface to create a smooth and attractive finish.
• Painters: use paint spraying machines to coat the zither, protecting the wood and providing a glossy appearance.
• Coaters: ensure paint and coating layers are even and free of blemishes.
• Sound Quality Technicians: test the sound quality of each zither after completion to ensure every product meets quality standards.
• String Tension Technicians: check and adjust string tension.
• Packing Workers: carefully pack zithers to protect products during transportation.

Group 4

• Office work, service, sales, and marketing.
• Production management, quality management, human resources management, material management, financial accounting management.
• Research and development of new products, design of product packaging and branding.

2. Overview of Occupational Safety Training Course for Zither Production

In this article, we focus on Group 3 because Group 3 directly participates in the production process and faces the highest occupational safety risks. For other groups, see more here.

a. What is Group 3 Occupational Safety Training?

• Group 3 occupational safety training consists of sessions that equip workers with awareness on how to prevent occupational accidents.
• The safety training course helps workers recognize and avoid hazards, thereby reducing the risk of workplace accidents.

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b. Training Duration

Initial safety training duration:

• Total training time is at least 24 hours, including exam time.
• 8 hours of theoretical lessons on occupational safety and hygiene policies and laws.
• 8 hours of theoretical lessons on basic occupational safety and hygiene knowledge.
• 4 hours of theoretical lessons on specialized training content.
• 2 hours of practical training on specialized content.
• 2 hours of theoretical exam at the end of the training course.

The safety training center will schedule sessions depending on the workers’ availability. Usually, there are 6 sessions over 3 days, provided the manufacturing company arranges continuous training time.

Periodic safety training duration:

• Before the occupational safety card expires, workers who want to renew must undergo periodic occupational safety training, with the periodic training time being at least 50% of the initial training duration.

Explanation: The total periodic occupational safety training duration is at least 12 hours, including exam time. After completing the periodic training and passing the exam, workers will be re-issued or have their occupational safety cards renewed.

c. Training Content

See more training contents of the 6 groups

d. Occupational Safety Card

After completing the occupational safety training course and passing the exam, workers will be issued an occupational safety card (commonly known as the occupational safety certificate for Group 3).

The Group 3 safety card clearly displays information such as full name, date of birth, specific job and work environment, as well as training duration, red stamp, and signature confirming course completion.

According to the regulations on card issuance stated in Clause 2 of Article 24, Decree 44/2016/ND-CP, there are two cases:

• If the employer and employee have a labor contract, the employer must sign, stamp, and endorse the safety card for the Group 3 worker after they complete the training and pass the exam from the occupational safety training unit.
• If the worker is freelance or temporary with no labor contract, the training unit must sign, stamp, and endorse the safety card after the worker completes the training and passes the exam.

3. Identifying Hazards Affecting Workers in Zither Production

Mechanical Hazards

Hazards:

• Injuries from machinery: Saws, planers, milling machines, and drills can cause serious injuries if not used properly.
• Cutting and stabbing: Hand tools such as knives and chisels can cause cuts and punctures.
• Pinching and crushing: Moving parts of machinery can pinch or crush workers’ hands or fingers.

Chemical Hazards

Hazards:

• Exposure to toxic chemicals: Paints, solvents, and surface coatings can cause respiratory, skin, and eye problems.
• Inhalation of wood dust: Dust from wood can cause respiratory issues, allergies, and chronic lung diseases.

Noise Hazards

Hazards:

• Loud noise: From machinery such as saws, planers, and milling machines can cause hearing damage.

Hygiene Hazards

Hazards:

• Unclean working environment: Can lead to health issues such as allergies, skin infections, and respiratory diseases.
• Non-compliance with personal hygiene procedures: After exposure to wood dust and chemicals.

Electrical Safety Hazards

Hazards:

• Electric shock: Caused by improper use or malfunction of electrical equipment.

Psychological Hazards

Hazards:

• Stress and fatigue: Due to noisy environment, high work intensity, and long working hours.

4. Safety Measures for Participating in Zither Production

Occupational Safety Training

• Providing safety training courses: Train employees on safety rules and regulations in the factory.
• Guidance on machinery and equipment use: Ensure employees know how to operate machines safely.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Safety glasses: Protect eyes from wood dust and small debris.
• Masks: Prevent inhalation of wood dust and toxic chemicals.
• Gloves: Protect hands from cuts and injuries.
• Noise-cancelling earphones: Protect hearing from loud machinery noise.
• Protective clothing: Protect skin from exposure to chemicals and wood dust.

Regular Machinery Maintenance and Inspection

• Regular machinery inspections: Ensure all equipment works properly and is free of technical faults.
• Periodic maintenance: Repair and maintain machinery to prevent breakdowns and accidents.

Establishing Safety Procedures

• Machinery operation procedures: Set up and comply with safe operating procedures for each type of machine.
• Chemical safety instructions: Ensure employees know how to handle and store chemicals safely.

Dust and Chemical Management

• Effective ventilation system: Ensure the working area air is always clean and fresh.
• Use of industrial vacuum cleaners: Remove wood dust and small debris to minimize respiratory risks and fire hazards.
• Proper chemical storage and use: Use safe containers and labeling for chemicals.

Ensuring Electrical Safety

• Regular electrical system inspections: Prevent risks of electric shock or fire due to electrical faults.
• Use of high-quality electrical wires and equipment: Ensure safety during use.

Creating a Safe Working Environment

• Keep the work area clean and tidy: Reduce risks of slips, trips, and other accidents.
• Place safety signs and instructions: Warn about hazardous areas and provide safe machinery usage guidelines.
• Periodically conduct work environment monitoring in factories to collect and analyze harmful factors affecting workers, thereby adjusting and reducing hazards to prevent occupational diseases.

Supervision and Inspection

• Occupational safety supervision: Have supervisors to ensure all safety measures are followed.
• Periodic inspections: Conduct regular inspections to detect and promptly resolve safety hazards.

First Aid and Emergency Response

• Provide first aid kits: Place first aid kits at easily accessible locations in the factory.
• Basic first aid training: Train employees in basic first aid skills to respond to accidents.

Implementing Health and Safety Policies

• No smoking and alcohol policies: Prohibit tobacco and alcohol use in the working area.
• Regular health check-ups: Organize periodic health screenings to ensure employees are fit for work.

5. Benefits of Occupational Safety Training for Zither Production

An Toàn Nam Việt provides your business with the following excellent benefits after completing occupational safety training courses in compliance with Decree 44/2016/ND-CP on occupational safety and hygiene for companies, factories, and enterprises.

• Workers can identify potential occupational hazards and take preventive measures to avoid accidents.
• Your business can establish risk prevention measures in production, operation, and maintenance processes.
• Reduce costs arising from occupational safety risks.
• Uninterrupted production process helps increase labor productivity and product quality.
• Compliance with occupational safety laws to avoid legal risks.
• Create credibility and professionalism in all aspects, thereby elevating your business’s brand.

Nam Việt’s training courses are the solution to prevent and counteract external factors affecting individuals, helping them avoid dangers that could lead to injuries or, worse, death.

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6. Customer Feedback After Completing Occupational Safety Training for Zither Production

An Toàn Nam Việt has many years of experience accompanying numerous businesses in Vietnam in general and in southern provinces in particular. This responsibility is very precious to Nam Việt, so our Occupational Safety Training services have become increasingly professional. The motivation for An Toàn Nam Việt’s growth comes from positive feedback and suggestions from our business partners. Below are testimonials from partners we have served.

KOSIA E&C Co., Ltd.

“I am very satisfied with Nam Việt’s safety training service; the teaching quality meets our standards. It helped our company reduce a significant issue, allowing us to focus more on our expertise.”

Lee Ki Hwa / General Director

Bac Nam E&C Joint Stock Company

“My first time using An Toàn Nam Việt’s service, I was pleasantly surprised by the enthusiastic 24/7 support from the consulting team. Organizing the training was quick and convenient for our company. Thank you very much for Nam Việt’s service!”

Nguyễn Thanh Bình / Director

Hoa Dat Construction and Trading Joint Stock Company

“Nam Việt’s service has greatly helped us simplify occupational safety and complete safety documentation for work processes. The consulting team was enthusiastic and timely in answering our questions. Five stars for Nam Việt.”

Trương Bá Ngọc Minh / Chairman of the Board

See more customer interviews after using An Toàn Nam Việt’s services

7. Occupational Safety Training Capacity of An Toàn Nam Việt

An Toàn Nam Việt is a reputable and quality occupational safety training center in Vietnam today. Our safety training sessions are continuously held at manufacturing workshops, factories, or construction sites nationwide (in all 63 provinces of Vietnam).

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Occupational Safety Training License

• An Toàn Nam Việt has been inspected and certified by the Department of Safety under the Ministry of Labor – Invalids and Social Affairs, granting us the certificate to operate occupational safety and hygiene training. This further strengthens our capacity in occupational safety training.

Training Materials and Lectures

• Before being included in occupational safety training courses, all materials are reviewed and approved to ensure that the lectures are accurate and effective when applied.
• The teaching methods of our instructors follow the standards of An Toàn Nam Việt, developed by experts in occupational safety and hygiene training through research and experience to maximize knowledge absorption for learners.

Facilities

• Controlling environmental factors in the classroom during training improves teaching efficiency and learners’ knowledge retention.
• Our training facility always provides spacious classrooms that meet standards for area, lighting, and training equipment, etc.

8. Nationwide Reputable and Quality Safety Training Center

At An Toàn Nam Việt, we prioritize the professional dedication to occupational safety training. For us, imparting knowledge on self-protection to workers equips them with safety skills that contribute to nation-building.

To ensure effective training, we meticulously prepare every detail, from tools and teaching devices to curricula, materials, audio, and lighting.

Our occupational safety instructors are experts with many years of experience in the field. Some have even conducted research identifying hazards across various industries and ways to prevent them.

Our instructors’ lectures are practical, vivid, and easy for workers to understand. These factors help learners feel comfortable during study and absorb knowledge well. Of course, the content always strictly follows Decree 44/2016/ND-CP.

Thus, workers learn many hazard prevention measures and how to best protect themselves while applying them suitably in real work situations.

Our training center is proud to be a reputable, professional occupational safety training provider with these advantages:

• Competitive training costs while maintaining guaranteed quality.
• Flexible training schedules to accommodate company production.
• Fast and legally compliant procedures for issuing training certificates.
• Experienced instructors with many years in the profession.
• Classrooms controlled for factors affecting training efficiency and learner knowledge absorption.
• Training materials tailored to occupational safety at enterprises.
• An Toàn Nam Việt works dedicatedly and professionally to support customers accurately and promptly.

9. Additional References for Occupational Safety Training Materials for Zither Production

• Occupational Safety Materials for Zither Production
• Occupational Safety Training Materials Set
• Occupational Safety Training Test Bank
• Occupational Safety Curriculum for Zither Production
• Multiple-choice Test on Occupational Safety for Zither Production