DID YOU KNOW?
Over 800 deaths per year result from unguarded machinery. [1] Most of these are preventable with the right safeguards in place.
STAY INFORMED
- Amputations are among the most serious and debilitating workplace injuries — and they're often caused by machinery without proper guarding. [1]
- About 10,000 amputations occur each year in the U.S. due to machine-related incidents. [3]
- Machine guards create physical barriers between the operator and moving parts, preventing contact with blades, gears, rollers, and other hazards. [1]
HELPFUL TIPS
1. Use Guards That Are Properly Attached
- Guards should be affixed securely to the machine and positioned to prevent access to danger zones. Don’t use makeshift or temporary coverings. [1]
2. Never Operate a Machine Without Its Guard
- Do not bypass, remove, or disable guards to speed up a task. That shortcut could cost you a finger — or your life.
3. Report Missing or Damaged Guards
- If you notice a missing or damaged guard, stop using the machine immediately and notify your supervisor. [1]
4. Avoid Loose Clothing and Jewelry
- Machine guards can’t protect you if clothing or accessories become entangled. Remove rings, secure long hair, and avoid baggy sleeves. [3]
EQUIPMENT SAFETY REMINDER
Guards are there for a reason — to protect your hands, limbs, and life. Never operate a machine without proper guarding, and always report unsafe conditions. Prevention starts with protection.