MSHA unveils machine guarding compliance assistance resource

MSHA introduced a new guide that will serve as a compliance assistance resource to address improperly guarded machinery.

“Guarding Machinery at Metal & Nonmetal Mines” is a sequel to a compliance guide for guarding conveyor belts published in 2010. In that year, guarding-related violations peaked at 10,877 and accounted for one of every seven violations cited.

The purpose of the guide is threefold: to improve the mining industry’s understanding of good guarding principles; ensure the construction, installation and maintenance of high-quality, effective guards; and improve compliance, inspection and enforcement consistency.

The new guide, available at www.msha.gov, provides examples of good guarding practices and compliance information related to all types of mining equipment, including drive and power transmission components; crushers and screens; rotating, packaging and palletizing equipment; power tools; and auxiliary equipment.

Guarding-related citations and orders issued through the third quarter of 2012 are down 39 percent from 2010 levels.