If you operate machinery in your facility, you know the importance of ensuring the safety of your workers. One way to do this is by performing machinery risk assessments, which are designed to identify and evaluate the potential hazards associated with the machinery and determine the appropriate controls to mitigate those hazards. But what is a machinery risk assessment and how is it used in machinery safety standards?
Let’s explore!
What is a Machinery Risk Assessment?
A machinery risk assessment is a systematic process of evaluating the potential hazards associated with the machinery and determining the appropriate controls to mitigate those hazards. It is typically used in the context of machinery safety standards, which are designed to protect workers from hazards associated with moving machinery.
Relevant ISO and B11 Standards
The ISO and B11 standards are two of the most widely recognized machinery safety standards that address machinery risk assessment. The ISO standard, ISO 12100, Safety of machinery – General principles for design – Risk assessment and risk reduction, specifies the general principles for the design of machinery and outlines the process for risk assessment and risk reduction. B11.0 is the standard which outlines risk assessment in America.
Why is a Machinery Risk Assessment Important in Machinery Safety?
A machinery risk assessment is important in machinery safety because it helps to identify and evaluate the potential hazards associated with the machinery and determine the appropriate controls to mitigate those hazards. By performing a machinery risk assessment, you can ensure that your workers are protected from the hazards associated with moving machinery, such as crushing, shearing, and amputation.
How to Perform a Machinery Risk Assessment
There are several steps involved in performing a machinery risk assessment, including:
✅ Identifying the potential hazards associated with the machinery. This can include hazards related to the operation of the machinery, such as moving parts, as well as hazards related to maintenance or repair of the machinery.
✅ Evaluating the likelihood and severity of the identified hazards. This can involve considering factors such as the likelihood of the hazard occurring, the potential consequences of the hazard, and the likelihood of controls being in place to prevent or mitigate the hazard.
✅ Determining the appropriate controls to mitigate the identified hazards. This can include the use of guards, interlocks, and other safety devices, as well as procedures and training to ensure that the machinery is used safely.
✅ Implementing the determined controls and reviewing the risk assessment periodically to ensure that the controls are effective and up to date.
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Fortress Safety has experts who can help you ensure the safety of your workers in machinery applications. Contact us for more information.
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