Mechanical Hazards and Injuries in the Workplace

The primary purpose of machine guarding is to protect people from mechanical hazards in the workplace. However, to safeguard a machine, you should first be able to identify the primary hazards that can be found in and around machinery. But first, let’s define mechanical hazards, and later, we will give examples. Mechanical Hazards “Mechanical hazard”…
Read More

Connecting Safety Interlock Switches in Series

To save on costs and simplify wiring, a standard method of connecting multiple interlock switches is daisy chaining them. Daisy chaining means connecting several devices in a linear series. But doing it that way may present what is called fault-masking, which are faults that the safety system may not detect. Daisy Chaining Mechanical Interlock Switches…
Read More

Two-Hand Control for Machine Safeguarding

An adequately installed two-hand control on an operating machine will keep its operators’ hands away from dangerous areas. These hazardous areas include dangers such as crush points. What’s a crush point? A crush point is any location where a body part might become trapped between two moving objects or one moving towards a stationary object….
Read More

Comparing Machine Safeguarding Assessments and Risk Assessments

Are you uncertain if your machinery can meet modern safety regulations? Using safeguarding or risk assessment methods, you can pinpoint areas where machine protection is lacking and identify potential safety hazards. Tons of machines are being set up in companies every day. From small machines like a Home Depot saw to giant machines like automated…
Read More

Presence-Sensing Devices, An Essential Guide

Introduction – What are presence-sensing safety devices? If you can’t use a permanent barrier for machine safety, or if the situation demands it, you might need a device that can tell when someone is there. These devices, called presence-sensing devices, use electronic sensors to notice if a person or object is in a certain area….
Read More

Choosing Safety: What to Look for in Machine-Guarding Companies

Introduction Numerous machine-guarding companies are available, each claiming to enhance safety through effective machine-guarding solutions. While some companies specialize in specific services like conducting risk assessments, others provide more comprehensive solutions encompassing a wider range of machine safety services.  Machine guarding involves installing safety devices on or near industrial machinery to shield workers from hazards…
Read More

Band Saw Safety 101: Guarding Against Risks in Vertical and Horizontal Band Saws

In the world of manufacturing, metalworking, and woodworking, band saws – vertical and horizontal alike – are indispensable tools. While they contribute immensely to operational efficiency, they also pose significant safety risks if not handled and safeguarded appropriately. Today, we’ll delve into how to make these machines safer for operators, thereby mitigating potential accidents. Understanding…
Read More

Machine Shop Safety for Managers

“Building a Strong Foundation: Machine Shop Safety for Managers, Supervisors, and Safety Engineers” Thousands of machine shops are spread nationwide and play a vital role in manufacturing.  However, ensuring these shops meet safety standards can be challenging, especially for those not directly involved in machine operations.  This article on machine shop safety is not just…
Read More