Machine Guarding and Safety Devices: To The Point
When it comes to working with machinery, there are certain hazards you should be aware of; including pinch points, nip points, moving parts, and the points of operation of equipment. To protect workers from these hazards, a machine guarding program should be implemented, which includes a combination of fixed guarding, light curtains, interlock switches, and other safety devices designed to prevent inadvertent contact with a potentially dangerous machine. This course explores these types of safety devices, as well as the various kinds of guards and safe work practices necessary to avoid accidents and injuries.
Typically, the machine’s operator is the individual closest to the potential harm, and they must know and understand the hazards of any machine or equipment they are operating. One specific risk of injury comes at the point of operation, for example, which is the location where the action of the machine performs work, such as cutting, bending, drilling, or punching. If one does not understand the dangers various types of machines pose, the risk of serious injury or death significantly increases. This training lesson gives you guidance as to safe operating procedures and good housekeeping for using these kinds of machines.
When a hazard cannot be controlled or eliminated by the design of the machine or equipment, some type of machine guarding or safety device must be in place. However, not all hazards can be fully guarded against. Your safety also depends on the proper use of personal protective equipment, or PPE, which you will be taught about here. Utilize the information presented here and learn how to safely work with and around these potentially hazardous machines.