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904 Oil and Gas Well Inspection
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Machine Guarding

Augers and Conveyors

Cuttings augers and conveyors present unique guarding challenges to protect employees from these powerful machines. Gratings and guards for this type of equipment should be securely fastened. Inspection hatches and cleanouts should be secured and lockout procedures should apply to any service or inspections that require removal or opening of hatches or guards.

Worker with a dangerous unguarded belt operating overhead
Is this belt properly guarded? What might happen if this worker's hair gets caught in the belt?

Belt Guards

Inspect all belt guards to ensure that they are installed properly and that all bolts and braces are in place and tight. Make sure that there are no worn spots on the guard that would indicate rubbing or chaffing by moving equipment. If guards make noise or if it shows signs of movement, the machine should be shut down and the guard must be repaired immediately.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

2-10. What should the inspector do if, during an inspection of machine guards, a defective guard is discovered?