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It's important to
make sure that machine tools have properly installed safety devices to ensure the safety
of those who work with or near the machines. On other pages, you'll find out about
enclosures and fluid application. But first, let's consider how safety can be
achieved--and maintained. What are the important aspects
of machine safety? |
| Getting Started |
| Glossary |
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| Information&Links |
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The basics of machine safety involve providing protective systems |
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See OSHA 29
CFR1910.212 on
OSHA's website |
 | at the point of operation |
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| at the power transmitting apparatus of the equipment |
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| where there are any moving parts on the machine |
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Who is responsible for ensuring machine safety? |
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On other pages:
Training
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Employers, employees, and the manufacturers of the machines are
responsible for ensuring the safety of the mechanical equipment used in the machining
process. Guards or other protective measures are expected to be installed and used to
prevent employees from coming into contact with moving parts. Employees should be trained
in the presence and use of machine guarding and other protective measures. |
How are workers protected from mechanical
hazards?
There are various ways to protect workers from exposure to mechanical
hazards:
| machine guards: fixed, interlocked, self-adjusting, or adjustable |
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| presence-sensing devices |
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| safety controls |
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| gates |
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| location |
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Barriers or shields often perform several
functions. Suitable barriers should prevent employees from accidentally contacting the
moving equipment. The barrier should enclose the moving parts in a way that will ensure
that the worker's clothing, hair, or other parts of the body cannot be pulled into the
machine. at the same time, the barrier or guard may also deflect or capture the metal
removal fluids. |
How should guards be installed?
| Guards should be secured to the equipment. Employees should not be able to easily remove
the guards or make them ineffective. |
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| Guards should be made of suitable material and should not have sharp edges. |
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| Guards should cover the moving parts to prevent materials or tools from falling into the
equipment. |
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| Guards should not get in the worker's way. |
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| Guards should not have to be removed for adjustments, lubrication, and other equipment
service, if at all possible. |
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Contact Chris Roman, 