HSE Warning over Machine Guarding Maintenance

Workers in the engineering sectors run the risk of serious or fatal injuries because guards on turning machines (better known as lathes) are not being properly maintained, warns the HSE.

This follows a survey of CNC turning machines carried out by HSE inspectors during 2002/03. They looked at the condition of machine guards, including vision panels, which are fitted into guard doors to allow operators to view the machining process. Inspectors found evidence of cracked or damaged panels. These parts can also deteriorate over time due to the effects of metalworking fluid and lose a substantial amount of their impact resistance. These safety critical parts of the machine need to be properly maintained.

At about two thirds of the visits inspectors also found that users had not assessed the arrangements needed to maintain the machine so that it was safe to use.

There is a history of incidents at this type of machine where parts have been ejected and operators seriously injured, fatally in some cases, because vision panels have failed to contain the projectile. Modern computer controlled lathes are normally fully enclosed and interlocked and the risk of entanglement has largely been eliminated. However, enclosure panels need to be maintained in good condition to prevent injuries from ejected parts.

Guidance

The survey follows on from guidance issued by the HSE nearly two years ago. Engineering Information Sheet (EIS) 33 'CNC Turning Machines – Controlling Risks from Ejected Parts' , warned about the hazard of parts being ejected from machines and the need to ensure that vision panels are properly constructed and maintained.

Copies can be obtained directly from the HSE’s website - www.hse.gov.uk; click on ‘free leaflets’ and then ‘engineering’.
This document is for general guidance and research purposes only, and does not purport to give professional advice. Please check the date at the top of the article; the Workplace Law Network retains historic articles for general research.