The role of safety guards in machine operation
Category : BLOG
- What are the important machine safety standards
- Role of machines safety guards – why are they so important?
- How to prevent accidents at work
What are the important machine safety standards
Safety in the workplace is a priority for every company, especially in industry, where daily operations involve the handling of various machines. A lathe chuck guard, milling machine spindle guard or drill spindle guard is an absolute necessity in order to ensure an adequate level of protection for employees. To this end, the European Union has introduced a number of directives on the safety of machines and their guards.
The primary legal act regulating machine safety in the EU is the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC. Its main objective is to ensure that all new machines placed on the market in the European Union meet the essential health and safety requirements. The machines manufacturers must conduct a detailed risk assessment, identifying all potential hazards associated with the machine’s use and implementing appropriate countermeasures. Each machine must have comprehensive technical documentation that includes information about its design, operation, and safety measures. The manufacturer must issue a CE declaration of conformity, confirming that the machine meets all the relevant requirements of the directive. Each machine must be equipped with clear and understandable instructions for safe use, maintenance, and operation.
In turn, a basis for adaptation of machines manufactured before 2004 to the minimum requirements is so called tool directive 2009/104/WE concerning health and safety requirements for the use of work equipment by workers at work.
Role of machines safety guards – why are they so important?
Certified machine safety guards play a crucial role in ensuring operator safety. These are physical barriers designed to protect users from contact with moving parts of the machine, sparks, hot surfaces, and other potential hazards. Guards should be made of durable materials resistant to mechanical and chemical damage. They must be properly mounted to prevent easy removal. Machine safety guards should be designed in such a way that allows easy access to the machine for maintenance purposes without the need for complete disassembly. It is important that locking systems are effective and prevent accidental machine start-up during service work. Guards should be ergonomically designed to not hinder the operator’s work and allow convenient access to all machine control elements.
How to prevent accidents at work
There is no substitute for common sense and regular training on occupational safety. To ensure continuous security, guards should be regularly checked for damage and wear. Any irregularities must be repaired immediately. Proper training of personnel in the use of machines with guards is also crucial. Operators must be aware of all the potential hazards and know the procedures in case of guard failure.
Compliance with Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and tool directive 2009/104/WE, and adherence to safety rules are key elements ensuring the health and safety of employees. Companies must pay particular attention to the proper design, installation, and maintenance of machine guards and the regular training of personnel. Only then can a safe and efficient work environment be guaranteed.
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Also check our article on how to adjust electromagnetic clutch in a conventional lathe machine.
