Understanding the importance of machine guards

One of the primary methods of ensuring safety in work environments is through the use of machine guards. These are devices that are designed to prevent accidents by protecting the operator and others nearby from hazards created by rotating parts, flying chips, and sparks. However, understanding the importance of machine guards goes beyond just acknowledging their protective function, but also appreciating their role in enhancing productivity, reducing downtime, and even legal compliance.

What are Machine Guards?

Machine guards are physical barriers placed around dangerous parts of a machine to prevent contact with the operator or other workers. They come in various types and designs, depending on the nature of the machine and the hazards it presents. While the primary role of machine guards is to protect workers from injury, they also serve to prevent damage to the machine itself, thereby contributing to the overall efficiency and productivity of a manufacturing or engineering operation.

Types of Machine Guards

Machine guards can be broadly classified into four types: fixed, interlocked, adjustable, and self-adjusting.

Fixed guards are permanent parts of the machine. They are robust and reliable, providing a high level of protection. However, they can be cumbersome as they need to be manually removed for maintenance or repair.

Interlocked guards are designed to automatically switch off the machine when they are moved or opened. This provides an excellent level of safety, but they are more complex and can be more expensive to install and maintain.

Adjustable guards allow for flexibility, as they can be moved or adjusted to accommodate different tasks or operators. They provide a good level of protection but require careful adjustment to ensure safety.

Self-adjusting guards automatically adjust to the size or position of the material being worked on. They offer convenience and flexibility but can be less reliable than other types of guards.

The Importance of Machine Guards

Machine guards are essential for several reasons:

1. Worker Safety: The most obvious and important reason for using machine guards is to protect workers from injury. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), in the UK, there were 111 workers fatally injured in the manufacturing and engineering sector in2019/20. Many of these accidents could have been prevented with proper machine guarding.

2. Legal Compliance: In many countries, including the UK, machine guards are required by law. Failure to comply can result in hefty fines, lawsuits, and even criminal charges. More so, businesses may also face increased insurance premiums or even cancellation of policies due to non-compliance.

3. Increased Productivity: By reducing the risk of accidents, machine guards also minimise downtime caused by injuries or damage to equipment. This can lead to increased productivity and profitability for the business.

In conclusion, machine guards are an essential component of any manufacturing or engineering operation. They not only protect workers and equipment but also contribute to the overall efficiency and productivity of the business. It is, therefore, crucial that factory owners understand the importance of machine guards and ensure that they are correctly installed and maintained.

If you think a machine guard may be beneficial for your machinery – please contact us by emailing enquiries@candcfabrications.co.uk or calling 01977 670 067.