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726 Introduction to Machine Guarding
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Mechanical Power Transmission Apparatus Guarding

A significant difference between power transmission guards and point-of-operation guards is that the former type needs no opening for feeding stock. Below are important design criteria for these guards.

Image of wire screen guarding moving parts of a machine.
Power transmission guards should cover all moving parts so no part of the operator's body can come in contact with them.
  • The guard must be physically strong and sturdy enough to prevent accidental contact with the machine's moving parts.
  • It should be made of durable materials such as metal or polycarbonate, and be securely fastened in place to prevent it from being dislodged or removed.
  • The guard must be positioned in such a way that it completely covers the hazardous area of the machine. This means that there should be no gaps or openings that could allow access to the moving parts, and the guard should extend beyond the full range of motion of the machinery.
  • The guard should be designed in a way that does not impede the operation of the machinery or reduce its productivity. This means that the guard should be easily removable for maintenance or cleaning purposes, and should not interfere with the operator's ability to see or access the workpiece.
  • The guard should be designed with proper interlocks or other safety devices to prevent the machine from operating when the guard is not in place. This ensures that the guard is always properly secured before the machinery is turned on, reducing the risk of accidents or injuries.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

5-4. To be effective, power transmission guards should cover all moving parts in such a manner that ______ cannot come in contact with them.