Guard Tools

Fixed Guard: Provides a barrier – a permanent part of the machine, preferable to all other types of guards.

• 1910.212(a)(2): As a general rule, power-transmission apparatus is best protected by fixed guards that enclose the danger area. For hazards at the point of operation, where moving parts actually perform work on stock, several kinds of safeguarding are possible.

Interlocked Guard: When this type of guard is opened or removed, the tripping mechanism and/or power automatically shuts off or disengages, and the machine cannot cycle or be started until the guard is back in place. An interlocked guard may use electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, or pneumatic power or any combination of these. Interlocks should not prevent “inching” by remote control, if required. Replacing the guard should not automatically restart the machine.

Adjustable Guard: Provides a barrier which may be adjusted to facilitate a variety of production operations. Adjustable guards are useful because they allow flexibility in accommodating various sizes of stock, but, because they require adjusting, they are subject to human error.

Self-Adjusting Guard: Provides a barrier which moves according to the size of the stock entering the danger area. Self-adjusting guards avoid the potential for human error associated with adjustable guards.