Machine Guarding Basics

Machine guards protect employees from rotating parts, nip points, blades, belts, chains, and moving components. Guards should never be removed, bypassed, modified, or defeated unless an authorized maintenance activity is being performed under proper energy control. If a guard is missing or damaged, stop and report it before operating.

Discussion questions

  1. Where could this hazard show up in our area today?
  2. What control do we need to verify before work starts?
  3. What should be reported immediately?

Supervisor close

Confirm employees understand the key control, then document attendance according to site procedure.