Guard Construction and Materials

Guard Construction:

Designed & installed by manufacturer has two advantages, usually conform to the design and function of the machine. They can be designed to strengthen machines in some way or serve some additional functional purpose.

Construction-User-built is necessary for a variety of reasons and has advantages.

• Older machines usually are the only solutions
• May be the only choice for a mechanical power transmission apparatus in older facilities.

Construction-user-built can be designed to fit unique and even changing situations. They may also be installed on individual dies and feeding mechanisms and installation by their own workers can help promote safety consciousness in the workplace.

User-built also have disadvantages, they may not conform well to configuration and function of the machine and the risk that the guards may be poorly designed or built.

Guard Materials:

• Metal – Plastic – Wood are all used

Metal is usually the best option. Plastic is used where higher visibility is required. And wood is generally not recommended due to its flammability and lack of durability and strength.

In woodworking, constructing, outdoor locations where extreme cold makes metal undesirable, and chemical or other manufacturing where there is presence of vapors or gasses that could cause rapid deterioration of metal.