Guide

How is a machine guard selected?

A guard either prevents access to the danger zone or stops the machine when access occurs; a guard that does not slow the work is the one that stays on.

Two basic routes

A fixed guard physically prevents access and cannot be removed without a tool. An interlocked guard stops the machine when opened and does not allow running until it is closed. Which is appropriate depends on how often that zone must be reached.

Why guards get removed

Guards are usually removed not out of ignorance but because they make the work harder: clearing jams, adjusting, changing tooling. A solution that does not address the reason will not get the guard refitted a second time. Where frequent access is needed, an interlocked guard, not a fixed one, is the right choice.

What to check

That the guard is in place and sound; that the interlock actually stops the machine; that openings are sized so a hand or finger cannot pass; that the emergency stop is reachable.

After a modification

An attachment added to a machine or a part replaced can break the protection scheme. After a modification the machine is reassessed.

In Optifora

The equipment record holds the guarding arrangement and inspection results; a machine flagged with a removed guard is taken out of service and a maintenance task opens.

  1. Identify the danger zoneWrite the points where access creates danger.
  2. Measure access frequencyDetermine how often that zone must be entered.
  3. Choose the guard typeFixed for rare access, interlocked for frequent access.
  4. Test the interlockTest that opening the guard really stops the machine.
  5. Remove the reason for removalSolve the point at which the guard makes work harder.
  6. Reassess after modificationReassess the protection scheme when the machine changes.

Manage this in Optifora

Optifora is not a single program but a compliance platform assembled from modules. The catalogue states which module is ready today and which is on the roadmap.

See what Optifora is