The list of possible machinery-related injuries is long and bloody. It includes severed fingers, crushed hands, amputated arms, severe cuts, and other damage too horrible to mention. Sometimes workers are even killed by machines.
But it’s no use blaming machines for accidents!
The responsibility for preventing machine accidents and injuries lies with workers who don’t recognize the hazards, take risks, or are simply careless – and with management when it doesn’t train machine operators properly, strictly enforce machine safety rules, or maintain machinery in good, safe condition.
Simple Rules to Prevent Accidents
- Never use a machine with missing or malfunctioning guards.
- Know how to turn power on and off quickly if you should have to do so.
- Read the manufacturer’s instructions on how to operate the machine safely and correctly—and follow those instructions.
- Pay attention to training on the proper operation of machines and use them according to what you’re taught.
- Feed material into the machine with push sticks, not your hands.
- Find a comfortable working position to minimize fatigue.
- Take it easy—rushing through a job is one of the major causes of accidents.
- Pay attention. Machines are very powerful—stay alert to keep safe.
- Check machines before use—make sure maintenance is performed when required.
- Use lockout/tagout procedures when a machine needs repair or maintenance. Turn the machine off and lock out the power so that no one can start it up until the lock is removed.