Safety Meeting Toolbox Topics and Tailgate Talks
While guards may often appear to be a hindrance, overall they have proven to be otherwise. They have made large contributions to both security and production. Greater machine speeds have made possible through proper guarding, and certainly the conscientious employee works with greater confidence knowing that a machine offers maximum protection.
OSHA requires that machine guarding be provided and maintained in a manner sufficient to protect machine operators and other persons present in machine areas from hazards associated with the operation of machines. Such hazards include those created by points of operation, in-going nip points, rotating parts, flying chips and sparks.
Improper use and care of hand tools can cause serious injuries, such as cuts/lacerations, puncture wounds, contusions/bruises, eye injuries, etc.. Everyone using hand tools can help prevent such injuries with periodic inspections for defects and damage.