When must moving parts of equipment be guarded?

Guarding moving parts of equipment is essential to ensure the safety of employees who may come into contact with these parts. The requirement to guard moving parts hinges on the risk of injury when these parts are exposed and accessible to personnel during the normal course of their work.

When moving parts are exposed, there is a significant hazard that an employee might inadvertently come into contact with them, potentially leading to severe injuries such as cuts, lacerations, or even amputations. Therefore, safeguarding these areas is a proactive measure to minimize workplace accidents and foster a safer working environment.

It is crucial to implement such safety measures at all times when the equipment is operational, rather than just during maintenance or when the equipment is not in use. This approach underscores the commitment to employee safety consistently across all operations involving machinery and equipment.