Introduction

A machine is an assembly of moving parts built to accomplish a task. A number of hazards are associated with using machines and their moving parts, so it is important to take precautions to minimize danger. Employers and employees alike are responsible for managing these risks. Employers should provide adequate training as well as safeguards in the workplace, and employees must keep up to date on training materials and avoid hazardous actions and situations on the job.

It is important to note that while keeping machines safe to work with is one of the most important and effective methods of employee protection, it is not enough on its own. Without proper training, employees could fail to grasp the severity of a hazard, leading to the possibility of an employee tampering with or disregarding a machine guard or other safety precaution on a particular machine, such as a saw or a pneumatic press. When safeguards are bypassed, injuries are far more likely to occur. Additionally, untrained workers may not know how to use the machine guards to protect themselves, which can also lead to severe injury on the job.

Machine guarding will not solve all safety issues in a workplace. Employers must also take non-mechanical hazards into consideration and manage them. Additional hazards can be chemical, electrical, sensory, and so forth. When working with these other types of hazards, employees should wear protective clothing or additional equipment to minimize all risk factors.

To learn more about Machine Guarding visit our Machine Guarding Safety Online Training web page.