What are the different types of machine guarding used to improve workplace safety?

Machine guarding is essential to protecting workers from hazardous motion, pinch points, and flying debris. The most common types of machine guarding include:

1. Fixed Guards
   These are permanent barriers that are part of the machine and prevent access to dangerous areas. They are ideal for hazards that don’t require frequent access, such as rotating parts or blades.

2. Interlocked Guards
   These guards are connected to the machine’s control system and automatically stop operation when opened or removed. They are commonly used on doors, gates, or removable panels that require occasional access for maintenance or changeovers.

3. Adjustable Guards
   These can be manually positioned to accommodate different sizes of material while still providing protection. They are often used in woodworking and metalworking machinery.

4. Self-Adjusting Guards
   These guards automatically move into place as the operator feeds material into the machine, exposing only the portion necessary for operation. They are typically found on tools like circular saws.

5. Presence-Sensing Devices
   These include safety light curtains, laser scanners, and 3D radar systems that detect a person’s presence and stop the machine before contact occurs. They are ideal for applications requiring frequent access without sacrificing safety.

Each guarding type should be selected based on the specific machine, task, and risk level to ensure compliance with OSHA and ANSI standards while maintaining productivity.