What is machine guarding and why is it required?

Machine guarding refers to safety features—such as barriers, enclosures, and presence-sensing devices—that are designed to protect workers from hazardous machine parts. Guarding is legally required by OSHA (1910 Subpart O) to prevent injuries like amputations, crushed limbs, or fatalities. Effective guarding blocks access to moving parts and can also detect unsafe conditions before they cause harm. Guarding is essential for compliance, reducing liability, and increasing uptime by creating a safer, more reliable work environment.