Common OSHA Machine Guarding Violations and How to Avoid Them
Staying compliant with OSHA’s machine guarding standards isn’t optional – it’s essential. Yet every year, violations related to machine guarding rank high on OSHA’s list of most cited workplace safety issues. These aren’t just technical oversights; they can lead to serious injuries, downtime, and costly fines. At WireCrafters, we work directly with manufacturers, integrators, and safety professionals to address these issues head-on with practical and proven solutions.
Unguarded Points of Operation
The point of operation is where the machine performs its function, whether cutting, punching, bending, etc. OSHA requires that this area be guarded to protect the operator and others. Unfortunately, many facilities overlook customized solutions, instead relying on makeshift barriers or outdated guarding. Our RapidGuard® II system is built specifically for these situations. It installs quickly, allows for modular adjustments, and can be reconfigured as your floor plan evolves. No guesswork and no gaps!
Inadequate Barrier Guarding Around Robotics and Automation
Robots don’t get tired, but people working near them do. In many cited violations, automated areas lack appropriate perimeter guarding or have openings large enough for body access. This is where our machine guarding panels come in. Built from welded wire mesh, they provide clear visibility and airflow while keeping employees out of harm’s way. Pair that with properly placed access doors and interlock systems; you’re compliant and proactive!
Improperly Designed Access Points
Doors without safety switches, gates that don’t close securely, or wide-open access to high-risk zones are common missteps. Our hinged and sliding doors, with hardware options like electric strike plates and interlocks, give you control over who enters and when. Whether you’re fencing off a conveyor or isolating a robotic arm, our access solutions help eliminate the gray areas.
Lack of Regular Inspection and Maintenance
Even the best guarding systems can fail if they’re not maintained. OSHA doesn’t just look at whether guarding exists; they look at whether it’s functional. We recommend building machine guarding inspections into your routine maintenance schedule. Our systems are designed with durability in mind, but they’re also built for easy repair or reconfiguration. If a panel gets damaged or needs to be moved, you’re not starting from scratch.
Overlooking Custom Applications
Off-the-shelf guarding often falls short in complex layouts or multi-function equipment. At WireCrafters, we offer custom machine guarding solutions that consider your exact environment. From floor layouts to specific height or clearance requirements, we’ll work with your team to create a system that fits without compromise.
OSHA violations don’t usually happen in a vacuum; they happen when safety is treated as a checkbox instead of a critical component of operations. Investing in the right guarding solutions upfront and working with partners who understand safety and manufacturing realities allows you to stay compliant, reduce risk, and keep your operation moving.
Do you want to discuss a specific challenge? We are here to help you build safer spaces, one panel at a time. Contact a member of our team today.
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