Mechanical Power Presses

Understanding This Standard

OSHA Standard 1910.217 addresses the safety requirements for mechanical power presses, which are machines that cut, form, or shape metal or other materials by means of tools or dies attached to slides. The primary goal of this standard is to protect operators and other employees from injuries caused by the point of operation, where the work is performed, and from other hazards associated with the press machinery.

Key requirements of 1910.217 include comprehensive safeguarding of the point of operation. This means employers must ensure that employees are not able to place their hands or fingers into the point of operation while the press is cycling. Acceptable safeguarding methods include physical barriers (guards), presence-sensing devices (light curtains), two-hand controls, and pull-out or restraint devices. The standard also specifies requirements for clutch/brake control, foot pedals, and electrical systems to prevent unintended operation or cycling.

Common violations of 1910.217 frequently involve inadequate or absent point-of-operation guarding. Employers often fail to provide appropriate guards for specific operations or allow guards to be bypassed or removed during production. Other common issues include poorly maintained or malfunctioning safeguarding devices, lack of proper training for operators on safe press operation, and insufficient lockout/tagout procedures during maintenance or die changes. The average penalty for violations of this standard is relatively low at $384, but the maximum single penalty can be substantial, reaching over $71,000, indicating that severe violations or those leading to serious injuries are met with significant fines.

To comply with 1910.217, employers must conduct thorough hazard assessments for each power press operation to determine the most effective safeguarding method. All presses must be equipped with appropriate point-of-operation safeguards that prevent access during the operating cycle. Regular inspection and maintenance of presses and safety devices are crucial to ensure their proper functioning. Furthermore, employers must provide comprehensive training to operators on safe operating procedures, emergency stops, and the purpose and limitations of safeguarding devices. Implementing robust lockout/tagout procedures for setup, maintenance, and repair is also essential to prevent unexpected startup.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 'point of operation' on a mechanical power press?

The 'point of operation' refers to the area on a mechanical power press where work is performed upon the material, such as cutting, shaping, or forming. This is the most hazardous area and requires stringent safeguarding to prevent operator injury.

What are common safeguarding methods required by OSHA 1910.217?

Common safeguarding methods include physical barriers (fixed or interlocked guards), presence-sensing devices (like light curtains or safety mats), two-hand controls that require both hands to be on controls away from the point of operation, and pull-out or restraint devices that physically remove or hold the operator's hands away from the danger zone.

What kind of training is required for employees operating mechanical power presses?

Operators must receive comprehensive training on safe operating procedures for each press, the purpose and proper use of all safeguarding devices, emergency stop procedures, and the importance of never bypassing or disabling safety mechanisms. Training should also cover lockout/tagout procedures for maintenance and die changes.