Machine guards are important because they protect operators and other individuals in the work area from hazards associated during the machine’s normal operation.
Machine guards can protect from the following hazards:
- Pinch points
- Rotating parts
- Flying debris/sparks
- Reciprocating parts
- Live electricity
- Punching/Shearing/Bending parts
All guards and safety devices must be in place prior to operating a machine. It is not meant to hinder any type of activity involving the machine. Notify your supervisor immediately upon detecting missing or inadequate guards.