Location / Distance

Safeguarding by Location/Distance:

• Locate the machine or its dangerous moving parts so that they are not accessible or do not present a hazard to a worker during normal operation
• Maintain a safe distance from the danger area

One approach to safeguarding by location is shown in this photo. Operator controls may be located at a safe distance from the machine if there is no reason for the operator to tend it.

Another approach is to locate the machine so that a plant design feature, such as a wall, protects the worker and other personnel. Enclosure walls or fences can also restrict access to machines. Another possible solution is to have dangerous parts located high enough to be out of the normal reach of any worker.