OSHIFY Corporation v2.0
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2023
Centralized Hazard Control-OSHIFY v2.0

Machine Guarding

A safety program for machine guarding should include the following key elements:

  1. Hazard assessment: Establish procedures for identifying and assessing the hazards associated with each machine or piece of equipment, including the types of materials being processed and the potential for exposure to moving parts.
  2. Guarding requirements: Determine the appropriate type of guarding required for each machine or piece of equipment based on the hazards identified during the hazard assessment. This may include physical barriers, interlocks, or other types of guarding.
  3. Training: Provide training for all employees who operate or work around machinery on the importance of machine guarding, how to properly use the guarding equipment, and the consequences of not following proper procedures.
  4. Written program: Develop and implement a written machine guarding program that includes procedures for identifying and controlling hazards associated with each machine, policies for enforcing the program, and a system for documenting machine inspections and maintenance.
  5. Inspections: Establish procedures for inspecting and testing machine guarding equipment, as well as for maintaining and updating guarding procedures.
  6. Communication: Ensure that all affected employees are informed of the machine guarding procedures and that any changes to these procedures are communicated to them in a timely manner.
  7. Program evaluation: Regularly evaluate the effectiveness of the machine guarding program, including reviewing incident data and employee feedback. Use this information to make continuous improvements to the program.

By implementing a comprehensive machine guarding safety program that includes these elements, employers can ensure that their workers are protected from the hazards associated with machinery. This can help to reduce the risk of accidents and injuries associated with this type of work, as well as improve the overall safety and health of the workplace. The program should be reviewed and updated regularly to ensure that it remains effective in preventing incidents from occurring.