Efficient operations are always a priority for industrial operations in a competitive market with tight margins. Maintaining a safe workplace is another critical priority that doesn’t have to compete with efficiency.
Industrial machine safety standards often boost productivity by preventing accidents and minimizing downtime. Here’s a look at key industry regulations that protect workers and your bottom line.
OSHA: Occupational Safety & Health Administration
OSHA sets and enforces workplace safety regulations in the US, including industrial machine safety standards. OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910 covers safety and health standards for general industry workplaces. These standards apply to most industries in the United States. Here are some specific sections that directly affect manufacturing and industrial operations.
- Section 119 addresses handling hazardous chemicals to reduce the risk of explosions, leaks, and exposure-related illnesses. Compliance lowers workplace injury rates and reduces liability claims.
- Section 147 discusses proper Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) requirements to prevent accidental machine startups during maintenance. Failure to comply is a leading cause of industrial injuries that often result in severe injuries.
- Section 212 covers machine guarding to prevent injuries from rotating parts, flying chips, and sparks. Injuries in this category can include crushing, lacerations, and amputations. Proper machine guarding protects workers while ensuring uninterrupted operations.
- Section 1200 mandates hazard communication. It requires clear labeling, safety data sheets (SDS), and employee training on hazardous materials. Complying with this regulation reduces risks associated with exposure and other chemical-related injuries.
- Section 134 addresses respiratory protection to ensure workers are safe from airborne contaminants. Requirements include proper mask fit-testing, training, and filtration standards. Industries such as manufacturing, welding, and chemical processing rely on compliance to prevent long-term illnesses.
- Subpart D aims to prevent slips, trips, and falls, among the most common workplace injuries. By mandating guardrails, floor markings, and non-slip surfaces, accidents can be prevented.
OSHA’s General Duty Clause also requires employers to minimize musculoskeletal disorders by requiring proper workstation design, lifting techniques, and anti-fatigue measures. These measures prevent repetitive strain injuries, reduce absenteeism, and improve worker efficiency.
ISO: International Organization for Standardization
The ISO creates standards through a consensus of global experts from industry, government, and other stakeholders. Standards are based on industry best practices and safety information. More than just industrial machine safety standards, these apply to safety in industrial and manufacturing settings:
- ISO 45001. Developed in 2018, this standard addresses occupational health and safety to promote and protect physical and mental health. Organizations can become certified for this standard by demonstrating readiness through an audit report and review.
- ISO 9001. This standard focuses on quality management, but it also impacts safety by ensuring that safety hazards in production processes are identified and controlled.
- ISO 14001. Focusing on environmental management, this standard enhances workplace safety by reducing hazardous waste, emissions, and pollution. Compliance with this standard minimizes worker exposure to harmful substances, improves air quality, and reduces the risk of occupational illnesses.
NFPA: National Fire Protection Association
The NFPA is a nonprofit organization that develops and publishes fire safety codes and standards. Headquartered in the United States, NFPA standards are used globally to protect people and property.
NFPA 70E is the standard for electrical safety in the workplace. It outlines PPE requirements, safe work practices, and training guidelines for electrical workers. Compliance with this standard helps prevent arc flash incidents and electrocution to prevent worker injury and damage to electrical systems.
Industrial Safety: Protecting People and Profits
Workplace safety is essential for protecting workers and maintaining efficient, cost-effective operations. Compliance with OSHA, ISO, and NFPA industrial machine safety standards not only prevents accidents but also minimizes downtime and reduces liability costs. To learn more about improving the safety and efficiency of your operation, or to talk to a machine safety consultant, contact Adam Kahler at akahler@quadplus.com or call (815) 210-9885.
