What is the correct way to verify the effectiveness of a machine guarding system on a piece of heavy equipment?

The correct way to verify the effectiveness of a machine guarding system involves a multi-step process. First, a thorough visual inspection is necessary to ensure that all guards are in place, properly secured, and undamaged. Check for any signs of wear, tear, or tampering. Next, the guards must be tested to ensure they effectively prevent access to hazardous areas during normal machine operation. This may involve attempting to reach around, over, under, or through the guard to contact moving parts. If the guard allows access to hazardous areas, it is not effective. The machine should be operated through its full range of motion to verify that the guards remain effective under all operating conditions. For interlocked guards, which automatically shut down the machine when opened, the interlock system must be tested to ensure it functions correctly. This involves opening the guard while the machine is running to confirm that the machine stops immediately. The stopping time and distance should also be measured to ensure they meet safety standards. The point of operation, where the machine performs its work, must be carefully evaluated to ensure that the guarding system effectively prevents operators from placing their hands or other body parts in the danger zone. If necessary, measuring tools can be used to verify that the guard opening is small enough to prevent access. For example, if a milling machine has a guard designed to prevent contact with the rotating cutter, the effectiveness can be verified by attempting to reach the cutter with a test object (of the size of a finger or hand) while the machine is running; if the test object cannot reach the cutter, the guard is effective. All verification activities should be documented, including the date, the name of the person performing the verification, and any findings or corrective actions taken. Regular inspections and verifications are essential to maintaining the effectiveness of machine guarding systems.