Machine Guarding

Common areas of machines that are guarded:

• Point of operation - where work is performed on the material
• Power transmission device - all components of the mechanical system, which transmit energy to the machine
• Operating controls and other moving parts -

All machine guards must do the following:

• prevent contact
• remain secure
• protect from falling objects
• create no new hazards
• create no interference
• allow safe lubrication

Types of guards:

Interlock guard - when the guard is opened or removed, the machine will shut down, and cannot be restarted until the guard is replaced
Fixed guard - creates a barrier between the operator and the hazardous moving parts
Adjustable guard - a barrier that can be adjusted to accommodate the operation
Self-adjustable guard - a barrier that moves and adjusts to the item being processed

Further Information:

To get more information on machine guarding, contact the EH&S Office at (608) 246-6291.

Questions? Contact Environmental Health & Safety