The University of Arizona is committed to protecting workers from risks related to exposure to machines and machine guarding.
This program outlines the procedures, responsibilities and training required under Arizona Division of Occupational Safety and Health (29 CFR 1910 Subpart O) to ensure compliance and protect our university community.
EHS provides support for all key requirements for machine guarding:
- Machine, guarding, and hazard characterization and inventory
- Connections between machine guarding and lockout/tagout requirements
- Assessing and inspecting machine guarding
- Training machine owners, operators, and others
Machine Guarding Coverage
The machine guarding program is a applicable to all university workers who may be an equipment owner, operator, repair technician, or working in areas with hazardous machines.
Examples of covered equipment include (not exhaustive): table saws, band saws, drill presses, grinders, sanders, lathes, milling machines, presses, mixers, conveyors, compactors, shredders, shop fans with exposed blades, belt/chain drives, couplings, rotating shafts, powered rollers, automated lab equipment with pinch points, and similar.
Machine Guarding Written Program
This written program details the confined space program requirements, roles and responsibilities, and provide templates to support compliance and safety.
Machine Guarding Training
Initial, periodic, and annual training are required for owners, operators, technicians, and may be required for other works. EHS can provide training upon request but also encourages internal training procedures or manufacturer-provided training (per equipment).
Guarding Assessment, Inventory, and Inspections
EHS provides a template for groups to inventory their machines, energy sources, guards, and other potential guarding needs. We also provide the following training record form, high risk equipment quick check guide, and a safeguarding change or modification form. Please contact EHS at ehs-help@arizona.edu for the inventory template or other documentation and support.