According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2025, there were 756 contact incident fatalities in the United States. That’s about a sixth of all fatalities in the workplace in 2024. Many of those fatalities which could have been prevented.
The law requires equipment to be turned off and locked out during any maintenance to prevent someone from turning it on unexpectedly. Employees should report any missing guards to their supervisor before operating equipment.
Be Alert Working Around or Operating Machinery:
The point of operation is where the work of the machine takes place. It’s a place where no part of the body should be. The point of operation may also produce sparks or fragments that can fly toward the operator. Safety glasses are important for this type of work.
The power train is where energy is transferred through moving parts like gears, shafts, belts, cables, and hydraulic or pneumatic cylinders.
Recognize and Understand the Following When Working Around Machinery:
- The location of machine guards and points of operation;
- The purpose of signage alerting workers to hazards and missing guards;
- The danger of pinch points and importance of guards on moving parts;
- Knowing and following established lockout/tagout procedures;
- Knowing when machines have been shut down for maintenance or to clear jams;
- Assuring that machines remain off while they are shut down for maintenance;
- Knowing and observing electrical safety work practices developed by the company; and
- Understanding the importance of keeping machinery clean to prevent equipment jams.
The surest way to safeguard worker hands and fingers is for everyone to stay alert when working around machinery or moving equipment and to follow established company safety practices and use common sense.
PAY ATTENTION…WHEN WORKING WITH POWERED EQUIPMENT!!
Download flyer: STOTW_1345_Machinery_Safety Download Spanish flyer: STOTW_1345_Machinery_Safety_esp
