Machine Guarding

Equipment  | Work Practices  | Work Environment

Moving parts pose a hazard when operating machinery. Machine guards lower the risk of contact between the operator and the machine. Safeguards put in place must prevent contact with the hazard, be secure, protect from falling objects, protect from projectiles, create no new hazards, create no interference, and allow for the safe lubrication of parts. 

Lab equipment must be installed and operated according to manufacturer's recommendations. If the equipment must be taken out of service for inspection, maintenance, or repair, follow the university Lockout/Tagout Safety Program. If a circuit break trips, contact CPFM customer service for assistance at 541-346-2319.

Hazards to machine operators that can't be designed around must be shielded to protect the operator from injury or death. Guards, decals, and labels which identify the danger must be kept in place whenever the machine is operated. Guards or shields removed for maintenance must be properly replaced before use. Moving parts present the greatest hazard because of the swiftness of their action and unforgiving and relentless motion.

Common machine hazards occurring around moving parts include:

  • Pinch Points
  • Entanglement
  • Crush, Laceration
  • Amputation
  • Struck by hazards

The following list includes basic safety principles for operating and maintaining all types of equipment. The information is from Oregon OSHA's guide Machine Safeguarding at the Point of Operation.

Equipment

  • Follow the equipment manufacturer's recommendations.
  • Use equipment only for the purpose for which its design is intended.
  • Operate the tool at the speed and tension specified by the manufacturer.
  • Inspect the equipment visually before use.
  • Removed unadjusted, defective, cracked, or worn parts from service.
  • Maintain sharp and clean parts.
  • When provided, use equipment with an exhaust or dust-collection system.
  • Use the appropriate size and type of part for the material and cutting action.
  • Check to see that guards, guides, and counterweights are properly adjusted and operable.
  • Avoid overheating the equipment.
  • Use only tools you can control easily. 

Work Practices

  • Make sure hands are kept at a safe distance.
  • Follow safe procedures as outlined in the operator's manual.
  • Always wear eye and face protection and other appropriate personal protective equipment.
  • Do not wear loose clothing or long hair that may become entangled.
  • Check to see that power cords are kept away from the line of cut and other moving parts.
  • Follow proper lockout/tagout procedures during service and repair.
  • Never defeat the guard to expose the blade.
  • Never reach under the saw, work piece, or any place you can't see clearly.
  • Direct the operation away from your body. 

Work Environment

  • Practice good housekeeping - avoid crowded, cluttered conditions.
  • Make sure combustible or flammable material is located away from spark-producing operations.
  • Provide adequate ventilation to reduce dust and other air contaminants.
  • Monitor noise levels and provide hearing protection when necessary. 

References

Oregon OSHA's guide Machine Safeguarding at the Point of Operation, Publication 440-2980. 06/24