Guards

Guards… They are on everything. Grinders, band saws, lathes you name it… It probably has some sort of guard. Some workers really think guards are put in place to slow us down. They think removing these guards is totally acceptable… And I guess it is, if you’re willing to lose a finger or an arm or your life (actually, even if for some reason you’re willing to take that gamble… It’s still not acceptable). Contrary to these beliefs, guards are 100% put in place to protect us. They should never be removed or altered in anyway. These guards are protecting us from moving parts that can pull in our hair, clothing and digits and cause serious injuries or even death. Some of this machinery is meant to cut or grind metal, what chance do you think your skin and bones have up against that? Guards need to stay put unless you are authorized to remove them. Otherwise, hands off. This goes for cleaning machinery or grinding in a tight spot. I know you may think “if I just take it off for a second, I can finish the job”. But that could be the last second of your life. Guards are in place for your safety, why would you ever want to alter that.