SFM

A safety talk for successful

injury prevention

Machine guarding
Introduction: n Tie back long hair.
Unguarded machines and equipment may cause severe n Roll up long sleeves.
cuts, amputations, or even death. As a group we need
n Do not wear loose clothing.
to take ownership and pride in making sure all equip-
ment and machines are properly guarded and are work- n Maintain a clean working environment.
ing correctly. n Keep the area free of debris.
n Do not wear gloves around moving parts.
Pre-Task Planning:
Be aware of safety devices and know how to properly
n Make sure that you are properly trained on the
use the following:
machine use and safety features.
n Wire trips.
n Pre-plan the job and set up the work environment
correctly. n Two button controls.

n Make sure all machine guards are in place before the n Wrist restraints.
machine is turned on. n Foot pedals.
n Do not hesitate to ask for help if the machine in not n Light curtains.
working properly or a guard is missing.
Conclusion:
Hazards: Remember guards are there to protect you, the equip-
Mechanical movements are hazardous. Watch for ment, and the product. Removing guards may cause
serious damage to all three.
n The movement of rotating parts.
n Reciprocating arms.
It is essential that the operator of the machine be prop-
n Moving belts, meshing gears, cutting teeth, moving
erly trained to recognize hazards present during opera-
parts, and points of rotation.
tion. Machines that are properly guarded may save
your or a co-worker’s life, limb, or other serious injury.
Safe procedures:
When working with machines:
n Do not remove guards.
n Remove your jewelry.

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