Related: Machine Guarding, Inspections & Service

Please Note: This blog post was originally written in January 2016, but the preparation steps can be used for any upcoming safety blitz. Revised March 2020.

With the machine safety blitz upon us, it is time to take action and ensure you are prepared. So what can you do? The WSPS created an incredibly informative article about what you can do to be prepared, and we have summarized it for you in seven simple steps.

RECAP: The blitz is going to be focused on machines that are not locked out, guarded or blocked when one completes maintenance, repairs or any other operations on them.

So what can you do to be prepared?

Here are 7 Simple Steps:

Step 1) Create a list of every machine, station, cell and production line that is in your facility.

Step 2) For every piece of equipment, make a list of all accessible equipment hazards or safeguards that you can reach under, over, through or around it. Look for things such as lockout points, energy isolation points and other similar hazards.

Step 3) Conduct a high-level physical inspection of every piece of machinery, focusing on high-risk equipment first.

Step 4) Make a plan for correcting any safeguarding deficiencies that you come across, with a focus on the highest risk deficiencies.

Step 5) If your workplace has the knowledge and ability to do so, correct all of the deficiencies in-house. If not, outsource the work, just ensure the job is completed correctly and efficiently.

Step 6) Follow up. Ensure that all of your new improvements are effective and are not creating new hazards.

Step 7) Have an ongoing safeguarding strategy in place.

Establish a formal risk assessment process.
Access machine safety twice. (Once assuming there are no safeguards and again if you have identified possible safeguards).
Develop an internal equipment safety evaluation process.
Ensure your procurement process takes into account the current safety standards and regulations.
Make sure your equipment receives regular maintenance and inspections.

To read the full article click here.