Miscellaneous Aids
While these aids do not give complete protection from machine hazards, they may provide the operator with an extra margin of safety. Sound judgment is needed in their application and usage. Below are several examples of possible applications.
An awareness barrier does not provide physical protection, but serves only to remind a person that he or she is approaching the danger area. Generally, awareness barriers are not considered adequate when continual exposure to the hazard exists.
The figure on the right shows a rope used as an awareness barrier on the rear of a power squaring shear. Although the barrier does not physically prevent a person from entering the danger area, it calls attention to it. For an employee to enter the danger area an overt act must take place, that is, the employee must either reach or step over, under or through the barrier.
Shields, another aid, may be used to provide protection from flying particles, splashing cutting oils, or coolants. The figure on the right, below, shows more potential applications with drills and lathes.
Awareness Barriers
Shields
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
2-9. Why are awareness barriers not considered an adequate miscellaneous aid when continual exposure to the hazard exists?
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