Control Engineering presents – Mechanical Guards or Electronic Guarding Systems

Mechanical Guards or Electronic Guarding Systems: Which is Best for the Application?

By Paul Davis Automation, Inc.

When evaluating choices for protecting machine operators, the options are clear. From OSHA’s perspective there are three choices in descending order of importance:

1. Design the hazard out of the machine;
2. Find a method to guard the hazard, protecting the operator and others in the immediate area;
3. Warn employees of the danger through training or visual awareness methods. Click here to learn what is best for you.

Guide: Common machine safety standards, terms, violations: Terms you need to know

Understanding machine safety standards and terms remains a challenging first step to spotting and reducing risks and increasing profitability. Sources for help are many. Standards organizations covering machine safety include American National Standards Institute (ANSI), National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Robotics Industries Association (RIA), and U.S. Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), among others. Requirements are numerous; some are more obvious than others. Click here to understand which Machine Safety terms you need to know.

Safety Drives Paradigm Shift: Turning an expense into a benefit

Manufacturers and suppliers no longer view enhanced safety in the workplace as an unwelcome expense. Progressive manufacturers see the use of safety as a way to differentiate themselves and drive greater profitability. To learn how others have made this change, click here.