2.1 MACHINE OPERATION AND GUARDING
Principles in Machine Guarding
Machine guarding aims to protect workers from injuries due to moving parts of machinery.
Basic Principles:
-
Prevent contact between the operator and hazardous moving parts.
-
Ensure guards do not interfere with normal operation.
-
Prevent accidental removal or bypassing of guards.
-
Create minimal obstruction for maintenance.
-
Guards must be durable, smooth, and corrosion-resistant.
Ergonomics of Machine Guarding
-
Guards should be designed considering operator height, reach, posture, and visibility.
-
Controls must be within comfortable reach.
-
Avoid awkward postures or repetitive motion that cause fatigue or musculoskeletal issues.
-
Emergency stop switches should be easily accessible.
Types of Machine Guards
-
Fixed Guards: Permanent parts of machine — simple, reliable, inexpensive.
Example: Cover on gears or pulleys. -
Interlocked Guards: Machine stops when guard is opened or removed.
-
Adjustable Guards: Can be adjusted to suit different operations or material sizes.
-
Self-adjusting Guards: Automatically move according to material thickness.
-
Distance or Barrier Guards: Maintain safe distance between worker and hazard (e.g., fencing).
-
Presence-sensing Devices: Use light curtains, sensors, or pressure mats to stop operation if someone enters danger zone.
Design and Selection of Guards
-
Should meet statutory standards (BIS, OSHA).
-
Must be strong enough to withstand impact.
-
Avoid sharp edges.
-
Easy to clean and maintain.
-
Transparent material preferred where visibility is needed.
Guarding of Different Machinery
| Type of Machine | Hazard | Safety Precautions / Guards |
|---|---|---|
| Wood Working | Flying chips, dust, rotating blades | Enclosure guards, suction for dust, eye protection |
| Paper Machinery | Nip points, rotating rolls | Fixed guards, automatic feed, emergency stops |
| Rubber Machinery | In-running nips, hot surfaces | Trip guards, safety trip rods, heat shields |
| Printing Machinery | Roller traps, ink hazards | Interlocked guards, auto-stop, gloves, ventilation |
| Machine Tools (Lathe, Drilling, etc.) | Entanglement, flying swarf | Chuck guards, tool rests, proper PPE |
Built-in Safety Devices
-
Emergency stop buttons (E-stop)
-
Two-hand control devices
-
Automatic feed and ejection systems
-
Overload and over-speed protection
-
Foot or hand controls with safety interlock
Maintenance and Repairs
-
Guards must be inspected and maintained regularly.
-
Replace damaged or missing guards immediately.
-
Lockout–Tagout (LOTO) system must be followed before maintenance.
-
Periodic training on safe maintenance practices.
2.2 SAFETY IN THE USE OF MACHINES
2.2.1 Safety in the Use of Specific Machines
| Machine Type | Hazards | Safety Measures |
|---|---|---|
| Power Press | Hand injury, ejection of workpiece | Two-hand control, interlocked guard, light curtain, regular inspection |
| Shearing Machine | Finger amputation, flying scraps | Fixed guard, foot pedal with shield, hold-downs |
| Bending Machine | Crushing between die and plate | Interlock guard, foot switch cover |
| Rolling Machine | In-running nip between rolls | Trip bars, emergency stop rope |
| Drawing Machine | Material whipping, entanglement | Guarded reels, slow-speed start, proper PPE |
| Turning (Lathe) | Entanglement with rotating chuck | Chuck guard, remove loose clothing, use proper tool rest |
| Boring Machine | Flying chips, rotating tools | Safety shield, goggles, chip guard |
| Milling / Shaping | Flying metal, cutter contact | Adjustable guards, secure clamping, cutter shield |
| Planning / Broaching | Tool breakage, moving table | Limit switch, guard on moving table |
| Grinding Machine | Wheel burst, eye injury | Wheel speed check, tool rest ≤3 mm, wheel guard, eye shield |
| CNC Machines | Program errors, tool crash | Fully enclosed guards, interlocked door, emergency stop |
2.2.2 Selection and Care of Cutting Tools
-
Select tool according to job material and cutting conditions.
-
Maintain correct tool geometry and sharpness.
-
Avoid using cracked or damaged tools.
-
Ensure proper clamping and alignment.
-
Store tools in dry, safe conditions to prevent rust or damage.
2.2.3 Preventive Maintenance and Periodic Checks
-
Preventive maintenance = Regular servicing before failure occurs.
-
Reduces breakdowns, ensures safe and smooth operation.
-
Checks include:
-
Lubrication and cleaning.
-
Checking guards, interlocks, and emergency stops.
-
Inspection of belts, gears, and bearings.
-
Calibration of safety sensors and limit switches.
-
-
Maintain maintenance logbook.
2.2.4 Associated Hazards and Their Prevention
Common Hazards:
-
Entanglement, cutting, crushing, ejection, noise, vibration, electric shock.
Prevention:
-
Proper guarding and PPE.
-
Safe operating procedures (SOPs).
-
Adequate lighting and housekeeping.
-
Operator training and supervision.
-
Strict adherence to Lockout–Tagout system during maintenance.
2.3 MATERIAL HANDLING AND STORAGE OF MATERIALS
2.3.1 Manual Material Handling
Kinetics of Manual Handling:
-
Involves human effort to lift, push, carry, or pull objects.
-
Poor posture or overexertion can cause back injuries.
Maximum Load Limits:
-
Men: ~55 kg
-
Women: ~20 kg (as per Indian Factories Rules)
-
Avoid lifting beyond capability; use team lifting or mechanical aids.
Safe Lifting Techniques:
-
Assess load and plan lift.
-
Keep back straight, bend knees.
-
Hold load close to body.
-
Avoid twisting while lifting.
-
Use correct footwear and gloves.
Handling Objects of Different Shapes:
-
Use tongs, clamps, or straps for irregular items.
-
Use padding for sharp edges.
Safe Use of Accessories:
-
Slings, ropes, hooks, and chains must be inspected before use.
-
Do not exceed safe working load (SWL).
-
Use color coding or tagging for identification.
Storage Safety:
-
Stack material on firm, level ground.
-
Do not exceed floor loading limits.
-
Provide adequate aisle space for movement.
-
Heavy materials at bottom, lighter on top.
-
Follow FIFO (First In – First Out) principle.
Ergonomics in Handling and Storage:
-
Design layout to minimize bending, stretching, or carrying long distances.
-
Use adjustable platforms and mechanical aids.
-
Ensure proper lighting and ventilation.
2.3.2 Mechanical Material Handling
Lifting Machinery, Lifts, and Hoists
-
Must be designed and constructed as per BIS/ILO standards.
-
Fitted with:
-
Overload indicators
-
Limit switches
-
Emergency brakes
-
Guarded moving parts
-
Safety Aspects:
-
Load must not exceed SWL.
-
Proper signaling system (hand signals or radio communication).
-
Regular inspection by competent person.
-
Maintain test certificates and records.
Industrial Trucks (Forklifts, etc.)
-
Operator must be trained and licensed.
-
Avoid overloading or uneven loading.
-
Maintain clear visibility.
-
Avoid sharp turns or slopes at speed.
-
Daily pre-use inspection (brakes, horn, lights, tires).
Conveyors
-
Provide emergency pull-cords along the length.
-
Guards on all nip points and moving parts.
-
Regular lubrication and inspection.
-
No riding on conveyors.
Lifting Tackles and Loose Gears
-
Hooks, chains, ropes, and slings must be tested periodically.
-
Tag with safe working load and identification number.
-
Replace damaged parts immediately.
Safe Working Load (SWL):
-
Maximum load a lifting device can safely handle.
-
Must be clearly marked and never exceeded.
Competent Person (as per Safety Legislation):
-
Person with adequate knowledge and experience to inspect and certify lifting equipment.
-
Responsible for:
-
Periodic examination and testing.
-
Maintaining inspection records.
-
Ensuring compliance with Factories Act and Indian Standards.
-
2.4 WORKING AT HEIGHTS
2.4.1 Working at Heights
Definition:
Any work performed at a place where a person could fall and cause personal injury (generally 2 m or more above ground level).
Incidence of Accidents
-
Falls from ladders, scaffolds, roofs, or unguarded edges are among the leading causes of fatalities in construction and maintenance industries.
-
Major causes include:
-
Unsecured or defective ladders/scaffolds
-
Poor edge protection
-
Lack of harness or anchorage
-
Slippery or unstable surfaces
-
Improper supervision
-
Safety Features in Design, Construction, and Use
| Equipment / Area | Safety Features / Requirements |
|---|---|
| Stairways | Uniform riser height; anti-slip treads; handrails on both sides; proper lighting; regular cleaning. |
| Ramps | Non-slip surface; slope < 1:10; edge protection or guardrails; adequate width. |
| Working Platforms / Scaffolds | Stable base; guardrails (1 m height); mid-rails and toe boards; planking properly secured; inspection before use. |
| Gangways / Walkways | Minimum width 600 mm; guardrails on open sides; no obstructions; safe access and egress. |
| Ladders (Fixed & Portable) | Correct angle (4:1); secured at top and bottom; extend ≥ 1 m above landing; inspected regularly; only one person at a time. |
| Roof Work | Use safety harness and lifelines; roof edge protection; crawl boards on fragile roofs; warning signage. |
Other Safety Requirements While Working at Heights
-
Conduct risk assessment before starting work.
-
Workers must be trained and medically fit.
-
Use full-body harness with double lanyard.
-
Anchor points must withstand ≥ 15 kN load.
-
Tools secured with lanyards to prevent falling objects.
-
Use barricades and signage below work area.
-
Implement rescue and emergency plan.
2.4.2 Working in Confined Spaces
Definition:
A space with limited entry/exit, poor ventilation, and potential for hazardous atmosphere (e.g., tanks, manholes, silos).
Hazards:
-
Oxygen deficiency or enrichment
-
Toxic gases (H₂S, CO, etc.)
-
Fire/explosion risk
-
Engulfment or entrapment
-
Heat stress or poor visibility
Safety Precautions:
-
Obtain Confined Space Entry Permit.
-
Test atmosphere for O₂, flammable gases, and toxicity.
-
Provide forced ventilation and lighting.
-
Use intrinsically safe electrical tools.
-
Keep standby person and communication system.
-
Use harness and lifeline for workers.
-
Keep rescue and first-aid arrangements ready.
2.4.3 Working Underground
Examples: Tunnels, trenches, pipelines, cable ducts.
Hazards:
-
Cave-ins or collapse
-
Oxygen deficiency
-
Flooding or seepage
-
Falling objects
-
Electrical hazards
Safety Measures:
-
Proper shoring, sloping, or benching of trenches.
-
Adequate lighting and ventilation.
-
Gas testing before entry.
-
Use helmets, boots, and respiratory protection.
-
Emergency escape routes and alarm systems.
2.5 HAND TOOLS AND PORTABLE TOOLS
Main Causes of Tool Accidents
-
Use of defective, worn-out, or wrong tools.
-
Improper handling or carrying.
-
Lack of inspection and maintenance.
-
Working without PPE.
-
Tools lying scattered causing trip hazards.
Control of Tool Accidents
-
Provide proper storage and issue system.
-
Regular inspection and maintenance.
-
Training for correct tool use.
-
Replace damaged or mushroom-headed tools.
-
Enforce PPE: gloves, goggles, and safety shoes.
Centralized and Personal Tool Issue System
-
Centralized Tool Room: All tools stored, inspected, and issued by responsible person.
-
Personal Issue System: Each worker provided with personal set of tools, reducing misuse.
-
Record issue and return to track maintenance and life span.
Purchase, Storage, and Supply of Tools
-
Purchase only BIS/ISO-certified tools.
-
Store in dry, organized racks with identification.
-
Maintain inventory records and inspection tags.
-
Supply tools only after inspection and sharpening.
Inspection, Maintenance, and Repair
-
Regular checks for cracks, wear, loose handles, or burrs.
-
Sharpen cutting edges; replace damaged handles.
-
Keep tools clean and lubricated.
-
Use tempering and dressing for metal-working tools.
Detectable Causes of Tool Failures
-
Overloading or misuse.
-
Poor material quality.
-
Improper tempering or heat treatment.
-
Corrosion or fatigue.
-
Inadequate inspection.
Tempering, Safe Ending, and Dressing
-
Tempering: Heat treatment to increase toughness of tool steel.
-
Safe Ending: Smooth edges and corners to prevent cuts.
-
Dressing: Grinding or shaping cutting edges to maintain correct angle.
Types of Tools
-
Metal-Cutting Tools: Chisels, hacksaws — keep edges sharp, use with goggles.
-
Wood-Cutting Tools: Axes, saws — use dry handles and firm grip.
-
Miscellaneous Cutting Tools: Knives, blades — store safely after use.
-
Torsion Tools: Screwdrivers, spanners — avoid over-torquing.
-
Shock Tools: Hammers — use proper weight and condition.
-
Non-Sparking Tools: Made of bronze or brass for use in flammable areas.
Portable Power Tools
Examples: Drills, grinders, sanders, saws.
Safety Measures:
-
Select correct tool for task and voltage.
-
Check cords, plugs, and insulation before use.
-
Ensure double insulation or earthing.
-
Avoid using in wet conditions.
-
Keep guards in place.
-
Disconnect from power before changing bits or discs.
-
Regular inspection and preventive maintenance.
-
Store safely after use.
2.6 PLANT DESIGN AND HOUSEKEEPING
Plant Layout and Safe Distance
-
Layout should allow safe workflow and material movement.
-
Maintain minimum clearances between machines.
-
Emergency exits and escape routes must be accessible.
-
Provide proper lighting, ventilation, and noise control.
-
Segregate hazardous processes from normal operations.
Need for Planning and Follow-up
-
Safety must be integrated from the design stage.
-
Conduct risk assessments and safety audits periodically.
-
Update layouts when new machines or processes are introduced.
Safety and Good Housekeeping
Definition:
Systematic management of workplace cleanliness, orderliness, and maintenance to prevent accidents.
Typical Accidents Due to Poor Housekeeping:
-
Slips, trips, and falls
-
Fire due to accumulation of waste
-
Obstructed emergency exits
-
Mechanical damage to equipment
Disposal of Scrap and Waste
-
Provide metal bins and segregation system.
-
Dispose hazardous waste as per Pollution Control Board norms.
-
Avoid accumulation of oily rags or combustible waste.
-
Follow “Clean as You Go” policy.
Prevention of Spillage
-
Use drip trays and absorbents.
-
Check hoses and valves for leaks.
-
Provide bund walls around tanks.
-
Clean spills immediately and safely.
Marking of Aisles and Work Areas
-
Mark pathways, fire exits, and loading zones with paint or floor tape.
-
Use arrows for traffic direction.
-
Keep minimum width of 1 m for aisles.
Use of Color as Aid for Housekeeping
| Color | Meaning / Use |
|---|---|
| Red | Fire equipment / Emergency stop |
| Yellow | Caution / Physical hazards |
| Green | Safety equipment / First aid |
| Blue | Mandatory signs (PPE, etc.) |
| White/Black Stripes | Traffic and housekeeping markings |
Housekeeping Contests & Inspections
-
Promote cleanliness through competitions and reward programs.
-
Conduct routine inspections with checklists for each area.
-
Assign cleaning duties and rotate responsibilities among staff.
Cleaning Methods
-
Dry sweeping or vacuuming (avoid blowing).
-
Wet mopping in non-slip areas.
-
Use mechanized sweepers for large spaces.
Employee Assignment & Checklists
-
Each department responsible for its housekeeping.
-
Use checklists to ensure daily compliance (floors, aisles, lighting, storage, waste bins).
Benefits of Good Housekeeping
-
Reduces accidents and fire risk.
-
Improves morale and productivity.
-
Enhances company image and compliance.
-
Facilitates quick emergency evacuation.
Role of Preventive Maintenance
-
Regular servicing avoids leakage, vibration, or breakdowns.
-
Ensures safe and efficient plant operation.
-
Extends equipment life and reduces downtime.
Importance of Standards and Codes of Practice
-
Follow BIS, OSHA, and ISO guidelines for plant and equipment design.
-
Regular audits ensure compliance.
-
Adopting best practices leads to safe, clean, and productive workplaces.
2.7 INDUSTRIAL LIGHTING & ILLUMINATION
2.7.1 Purpose and Benefits of Lighting
-
Ensures safe and efficient working conditions.
-
Reduces eye strain, fatigue, and accidents.
-
Improves work quality and accuracy.
-
Enhances morale and workplace appearance.
2.7.2 Phenomenon of Lighting and Safety
-
Adequate illumination prevents misjudgment of hazards.
-
Poor lighting leads to slips, trips, falls, and operational errors.
2.7.3 Sources and Types of Artificial Lighting
-
Sources: Incandescent, fluorescent, mercury vapor, LED.
-
Types: General, task, and emergency lighting systems.
2.7.4 Principles of Good Illumination
-
Uniform distribution of light.
-
Suitable intensity without glare or shadow.
-
Correct color rendering.
-
Maintenance of clean fixtures and reflectors.
2.7.5 Standards and Design
-
Recommended illumination levels as per BIS and Factory Act standards.
-
Design considerations: height of fitting, reflection, contrast, and task type.
-
Use of color coding for improved visibility and hazard identification.
2.8 VENTILATION AND HEAT STRESS
2.8.1 Purpose of Ventilation
-
To provide fresh air and remove heat, fumes, dust, and contaminants.
-
Maintains temperature and humidity within comfort limits.
2.8.2 Physiology of Heat Regulation
-
Human body maintains balance through sweating, convection, radiation, and evaporation.
2.8.3 Thermal Environment and Measurement
-
Measured using Dry Bulb, Wet Bulb, and Globe Thermometers (WBGT index).
-
Thermal comfort achieved when air temperature, humidity, and airflow are within safe limits.
2.8.4 Heat Stress and Its Control
-
Effects: Fatigue, dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.
-
Control Measures:
-
Source control (insulation, shielding).
-
Dilution ventilation and exhaust systems.
-
Use of fans, coolers, and air conditioning.
-
Work-rest cycles and hydration.
-
2.8.5 Standards and Codes
-
IS 3103:1975 – Code of Practice for Industrial Ventilation.
-
National Building Code, Part VIII – Building Services.
-
Factories Act, 1948 – Specifies minimum air changes and ventilation rates.
2.9 NOISE AND VIBRATION
2.9.1 Noise
-
Types: Continuous and Impulse Noise.
-
Effects on Humans: Hearing loss, fatigue, reduced concentration, communication difficulty.
2.9.2 Measurement and Evaluation
-
Measured in decibels (dB) using Sound Level Meter.
-
Permissible Exposure Limits (PEL): As per OSHA and BIS standards (e.g., 90 dB for 8 hours).
2.9.3 Noise Control Measures
-
At Source: Use of silencers, mufflers, acoustic enclosures.
-
Along Path: Sound barriers, insulation, absorption materials.
-
At Receiver: Use of ear muffs, ear plugs, administrative controls.
2.9.4 Vibration
-
Sources: Machines, compressors, hammers, vehicles.
-
Effects: Fatigue, bone/joint problems, damage to equipment.
-
Measurement: Using vibration meters (acceleration, velocity, displacement).
-
Control: Vibration damping, balancing, isolation, and regular maintenance.
2.10 ELECTRICAL HAZARDS
2.10.1 Hazards of Electrical Energy
-
Common Hazards: Electric shock, burns, fire, explosion, arc flash.
-
Safe Limits:
-
Current above 10 mA may cause muscle contraction.
-
50 mA or more can be fatal.
-
-
Voltage Limits: Low voltage (<50V) is generally considered safe under dry conditions.
-
Safe Distance from Lines: Maintain minimum approach distances as per IS 5216 and IE Rules.
-
Protection of Conductors:
-
Use appropriate cable insulation and correct current rating.
-
Avoid overloading and improper joints.
-
-
Power Isolation:
-
Install proper switches and circuit breakers.
-
Provide lockout-tagout (LOTO) during maintenance.
-
-
Protection Devices:
-
Overload Protection: Fuses, thermal relays.
-
Short Circuit Protection: Circuit breakers.
-
Earth Fault Protection: Residual current devices (RCD).
-
Surge Protection: Lightning arrestors, surge suppressors.
-
2.10.2 Precautions and Protection Measures
-
Borrowed Neutrals: May cause potential differences leading to shock; always use dedicated neutral wires.
-
Portable Electrical Tools:
-
Use double-insulated tools.
-
Inspect cords and plugs before use.
-
Keep equipment dry and clean.
-
-
Protection in Hazardous Atmospheres:
-
Use flameproof or intrinsically safe electrical fittings.
-
Follow electrical area classification:
-
Zone 0: Continuous presence of explosive gas.
-
Zone 1: Occasional presence.
-
Zone 2: Rare presence.
-
-
Equipment must be certified as per IS/IEC 60079 series.
-
-
Maintenance:
-
Periodic insulation resistance testing.
-
Proper earthing, labeling, and circuit identification.
-
2.11 STATIC ELECTRICITY
2.11.1 Basics and Causes
-
Static Electricity: Electric charge produced by friction or separation of materials.
-
Electrostatic Charging: Occurs during movement of non-conductors like rubber, plastic, and textiles.
-
Common Situations:
-
Flow of liquids through pipes.
-
Belt drives, conveyors, pneumatic transport.
-
2.11.2 Hazards and Control
-
Hazards:
-
Sparks may ignite flammable vapors or dust.
-
Damage to sensitive electronic equipment.
-
-
Control Measures:
-
Earthing and Bonding: Connect conductive parts to earth to discharge static.
-
Humidification: Maintain relative humidity to reduce charge build-up.
-
Use of Antistatic Additives and Materials.
-
-
Recommended Earthing Resistance:
-
Should not exceed 1 ohm for static control systems.
-
Follow IS 3043 – Code of Practice for Earthing.
-
2.12 LIGHTNING ARRESTORS
2.12.1 Fundamentals
-
Lightning: A natural discharge of static electricity between cloud and earth or between clouds.
-
Lightning Stroke: Direct hit to a structure causing high current and heat.
-
Lightning Flash: Visible discharge path during stroke.
2.12.2 Protection System
-
Purpose: Diverts high voltage discharge safely to earth, preventing structural damage or fire.
-
Components:
-
Air Terminals (Lightning Rods).
-
Down Conductors.
-
Earth Electrodes (Earth Terminals).
-
-
Design Considerations:
-
Use copper/aluminum conductors with adequate cross-section.
-
Maintain low resistance path to ground.
-
Earth resistance should be below 5 ohms.
-
-
Installation Locations:
-
High-rise buildings, chimneys, tanks, storage areas, power stations.
-
-
Reference Standard: IS 2309 – Code of Practice for the Protection of Buildings and Allied Structures Against Lightning.
2.13 SAFETY CHECKLIST FOR BUYING NEW MACHINERY
2.13.1 Pre-Purchase Evaluation
-
Verify compliance with BIS/OSHA/IEC safety standards.
-
Ensure manufacturer provides test certificates and conformity reports.
-
Check for CE or ISI marking for electrical and mechanical safety.
2.13.2 Design and Operational Safety
-
Adequate machine guarding and emergency stop buttons.
-
Presence of interlocks and fail-safe features.
-
Noise, vibration, and emission levels within permissible limits.
-
Safe location for maintenance and cleaning access.
2.13.3 Documentation and Training
-
Machine manuals, drawings, and risk assessment reports available.
-
Vendor must provide installation and operational training.
2.13.4 Inspection Before Purchase
-
Conduct a safety audit checklist, including:
-
Stability and anchoring.
-
Electrical safety compliance.
-
Guarding of moving parts.
-
Provision for emergency controls.
-
Clear labeling and hazard warnings.
-
.jpg)