Machine safety is all about reducing risk
Machine safety is all about reducing risk. Generally, there are three basic strategies one can follow:
1. Eliminate the Hazard source.
This is often referred to as “inherently safe” design. A good example of this would be folding sheet metal edges to get rid of cutting edges. However, inherently safe design can sometimes be difficult or impossible to achieve. For instance, to cut trees, a chainsaw will always need a chain with sharp edged teeth.
2. Prevent the hazard from hurting people by means of technical measures.
This is done by one of the following three strategies:
1. Prevent contact between hazard source and people. This can be done by fencing, covers or other “guards”.
2. Monitor access of people to the hazard source and end the hazard before people can reach it. This can be done by “interlocking” of doors, light curtains, laser scanners, contact mats etc.
3. Let the person control the hazard by “agreeing” to it. This can be done by providing a so called “hold-to-run” button, enabling button or two-hand control system. As soon as the person lets go of the control, the hazard is ended.
3. Warn people of the hazard and show them how they can avoid it.
This can be done by signal lights and horns, signs and labels or safety messages and warnings in the operating manual.
By combining these strategies, designing out hazards, implementing protective measures, and educating workers, organisations can create safer work environments and significantly reduce risks associated with machinery.
Prioritising machine safety is key to employees and also promoting a proactive safety culture in any industry.
