Rotating Equipment & Guarding in Food Manufacturing

1. Whenever there is rotating equipment, workers are exposed to to struck-by injuries, amputations, and even fatalities. However, with the the guarding of equipment we can protect employees from these multiple exposures.

2. A good safe guarding system will prevent workers from placing or coming in contact with any dangerous moving parts.

3. Rotating parts - Any equipment that uses a rotating parts can be hazardous. Some examples include conveyors, flywheels, and mixers.

4. Only operate conveyors that have all covers and guards in place.

5. Keep hands and all body parts away from pull-in points when equipment is in use.

6. Workers with long hair must have it tied up and contained in a hair net to prevent any accidental contact with any rotating parts.

7. Workers should not be wearing loose clothing or jewelry when working alongside equipment that has moving parts. Loose clothing and jewelry can easily get caught in machinery while it is in use.

8. Equipment that cuts or grinds product or materials can cut fingers, arm, and other body parts while chips or cut material can become projectiles. The cutting point of operation must be guarded to protect from these hazards.

9. Whenever there is maintenance to be done on equipment, always lockout or tagout equipment to prevent accidental startup of equipment. Always alert coworkers in the area before starting maintenance so no one tries to turn on equipment.

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