Machine Guarding

In the United States, the primary regulatory standard for machine guarding is set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in 29 CFR 1910.212. This standard requires that “one or more methods of machine guarding shall be provided to protect the operator and other employees in the machine area from hazards.” Adherence to this, and other specific standards like those for mechanical power presses (29 CFR 1910.217), is not just about compliance; it’s a fundamental requirement for preventing severe injuries such as amputations, lacerations, and crushing incidents, which are among the most common and devastating workplace accidents.

Point-of-operation guarding is designed to protect a worker from the specific area on a machine where work is performed—for example, the cutting, shearing, or bending point. This type of guarding is crucial because it addresses the most direct and immediate hazard. Perimeter guarding, on the other hand, creates a secure fence or barrier around the entire machine or workcell. While it may not directly guard the point-of-operation, it prevents unauthorized personnel from entering the hazardous area and complements point-of-operation guarding by establishing a safe zone.

There are several methods of machine guarding, often used in combination for comprehensive protection. The main types include:

• Physical Barriers: These are fixed guards like the wire mesh panels you provide, which create a permanent, physical barrier between the worker and the hazard.
• Interlocked Guards: These guards are connected to the machine’s control system and will automatically shut down the machine if the guard is opened or removed.
• Adjustable Guards: These can be adjusted to accommodate different sizes or shapes of material being processed, providing protection while still allowing for operational flexibility.
• Presence-Sensing Devices: These are a form of “soft guarding” and include light curtains, pressure-sensitive mats, and laser scanners that stop the machine when a person or object breaks a designated field.

While safety is the primary goal, well-designed machine guarding can significantly enhance productivity. By using a modular, easy-to-install system, companies can minimize downtime during setup and maintenance. Additionally, a properly guarded machine can be operated with greater confidence and efficiency, as workers do not have to constantly worry about potential hazards. By preventing accidents and injuries, machine guarding also reduces costly operational interruptions, medical expenses, and the financial impact of workers’ compensation claims, ultimately contributing to a more stable and productive work environment.

Choosing the right machine guarding solution requires a thorough risk assessment. The process typically involves:

1. Identifying Hazards: Pinpointing all potential risks, such as rotating parts, flying chips, or pinch points.
2. Evaluating Risk: Considering the severity of a potential injury and the likelihood of it occurring.

Selecting the Guarding Method: Choosing the most effective guarding solution based on the identified risks, prioritizing solutions that eliminate the hazard completely if possible. The goal is to select a guard that is a good fit for the machine’s function, does not interfere with its operation, and is durable enough to provide long-lasting protection.