Machine guard warnings

It is importarrt that unsafe conditions are not confused with hazards, during hazard identification. Unsafe conditions should be rectified as soon as possible after observation. Examples of unsafe conditions include missing machine guards, faulty warning systems and oil spillage on the workplace floor. 

The prevention of accidents must include process innovations such as machine guarding, use of warning signs, requiring use of PPE, providing real-world safety education and training sessions, and developing adequate administrative policies or... 

Orange is used to designate warning for dangerous equipment that may crush, cut, shock or otherwise injure. As an example, machine guards should be painted yellow on the outside and orange on the inside. 

Awareness Barriers An awareness barrier does not prevent access to the point-of-operation but it does alert people to a hazardous area or operation. It may work either of two ways. It may be a guard rail, gate or similar barrier that prevents easy entry or access to the hazardous area. A barrier may contact any part of the body of a person exposed to the point-of-operation to let them know that they are near or approaching a hazard. An awareness barrier should have a warning to explain the machine s hazards and the purpose of the barrier. 

Why did the accident happen Did someone accidentally trip the machine Why did Maria put her hand in the machine anyway Why was the guard not in place Would it have prevented the accident The accident seemed unnecessary. It appeared that Maria had made a stupid mistake. Did she not read the warning sign that said Never reach into the machine while it is on. ... 

Inadequate or missing guards to moving machine parts Missing platform guardrails Defective tools and equipment Inadequate fire warning systems Fire hazards... 

Some individuals in the material handling industry argue that the improvements in conveyor safety have not kept pace with improvements in other machines and processes. Some of the noticeable improvements, however, include full enclosures of pinch points such as chain and sprocket transmissions, perimeter pull cords for emergency stops, audible alarms and a delayed start-up function, pop-out rollers, improved warning labels, and interlock guards that are designed to shut off the power if removed. 

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