Safety Update - Machinery Use

The HSE is highlighting a range of issues by producing a series of Tool Box Talks. One of the latest relates to the use and maintenance of machinery.

Below are a list of simple dos and don'ts taken from the HSE Site.  The full Tool Box Talk can be found here.

Dos and don’ts of machinery safety for workers


Do…

• check the machine is well maintained and fit to be used, ie appropriate for the job and working properly and that all the safety measures are in place – guards, isolators, locking mechanisms, emergency off switches etc
• use the machine properly and in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions
• make sure you are wearing the appropriate protective clothing and equipment required for that machine, such as safety glasses, hearing protection and safety shoes

Don’t…

• use a machine or appliance that has a danger sign or tag attached to it. Danger signs should only be removed by an authorised person who is satisfied that the machine or process is now safe
• wear dangling chains, loose clothing, rings or have loose, long hair that could get caught up in moving parts
• distract people who are using machines
• remove any safeguards, even if their presence seems to make the job more difficult

We hope that this information is useful in helping you work safely.

Acknowledgement: Contains public sector information published by the Health and Safety Executive and licensed under the Open Government Licence v1.0