[EricH]

The most important one of all: SAFETY GLASSES at all times.

Make sure that everyone knows never to obstruct access to the (big) red buttons on machines. Those tend to be the emergency off buttons.

Take chuck keys out of chucks, period. You don't want a chuck key flying across the room--sweep bar dials are bad enough.

Keep your tools in good condition. Sharp tools work better than dull ones and have less of a tendency to slip. Files and saws with broken teeth don't work as well as ones without. For that matter, tools in good condition tend to make cleaner cuts and require less filing than tools in bad condition.

Steel toes are not necessary, but if someone has them, great. Some good solid leather-type shoes will probably suffice. I sometimes wear hiking boots--those are plenty sturdy for a FIRST competition build. Canvas shoes might not be such a good idea