Machine Guards

Steps that can help you and others remain safe around machinery include:

• Never start a machine without guards in place.
• Before guards are removed for repair or adjustment, the power should be turned off, all devices de-energized and lockout procedures followed.
• After routine maintenance or repairs, double check to ensure that guards have been securely replaced.
• Never wear loose clothing or jewelry when working around machinery.
• Make sure you know how to turn the power off should an emergency arise.
• For machines that require “feeding”, always use a push block or stick. Never use your hands.
• Never reach around or under a machine guard.
• Keep all guards in good condition.

Supervisors are responsible for ensuring their employees/students are trained in the safe operation of the machines which will be used.

Employees/students are responsible for notifying their supervisor if a guard is damaged or missing, for not operating a machine without operable guards as originally designed, and for not removing or otherwise modifying a guard.