A thorough hazard analysis of each machine and particular situation is
essential before attempting to safeguard. The following examples show how to apply the
principle of safeguarding by location:
- The machine or its dangerous moving parts must be positioned so that hazardous areas are
not accessible to a worker during the normal operation of the machine. This may be
accomplished by locating a machine so that a plant design feature, such as a wall,
protects the worker and other personnel. Another possible solution is to have dangerous
parts located high enough to be out of the normal reach of any worker
- The feeding process can be safeguarded by location if a safe distance can be maintained
to protect the worker's hands. The dimensions of the stock being worked on may provide
adequate safety. For instance, if the stock is several feet long, and work is being
performed only on one end, the operator may be able to hold the opposite end while the
work is accomplished. An example would be a single-end punching machine. However,
protection might still be required for other personnel
- The positioning of the operator's control station provides another potential approach to
safeguarding by location. Operator controls may be located at a safe distance from the
machine if there is no reason for the operator to tend it.
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