Machine Guarding

Machine Safety

Use of machines at Whitman College shall be conducted in accordance with WAC 296-806 . Whitman-specific definitions and requirements are shown below.

Definitions

• Machine: Any powered device with moving component(s) which can cause injury to a person or damage to a structure, material or other equipment; and
  • Is installed as part of a stationary hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical or mechanical system
  Examples include but are not limited to
  • Pumps
  • Motors
  • Eccentric, belt and chain drive components
  • Whether designed to be portable or stationary, is intended to be used as a stationary tool
  Examples include but are not limited to
  • Table and band saws
  • Bench grinders
  • Drill presses

• Other definitions as detailed at WAC 296-806-099 apply

Whitman Specific Requirements

• Manufacturer-Supplied Guards: Manufacturer-supplied guards shall be installed and used in accordance with manufacturer instructions unless alternate safeguards are approved by a Professional Engineer, licensed to practice in the State of Washington.
• Shaft Guards: Manufacturer-supplied guards protecting rotating shafts shall be assessed to determine if they provide adequate protection. They shall be deemed adequate if body parts and tools greater than ¼” in diameter cannot inadvertently interact with a rotating shaft. If guard openings are too large to provide adequate protection they shall be retrofitted with materials or devices which provide such protection and do not create a hazardous condition or subject machinery components to excessive wear or strain.