QPA guidance on machinery guarding

THE Quarry Products Association has published a practical guidance document on effective guarding of machinery typically found in quarry, asphalt, concrete, mortar and recycling plants, and other related activities.

Historically, a persistent feature of all industries operating machinery and equipment was the number of injuries and fatalities caused by the inadequacy or absence of guarding. Although standards have improved significantly in recent years, it remains a fact that, for some quarry operators, the basic principles are still not sufficiently understood, implemented or maintained.

The new publication, ‘Guarding of Machinery’, is relevant to both fixed and mobile processing plant and mobile vehicular plant, and brings fully up to date the earlier guidance published by BACMI (forerunner of the QPA).

The 36-page document includes key sections on ‘guarding life cycle’ (design, installation, cleaning, maintenance, repair, re-design etc) and the ‘principals of safe guarding’ in a range of typical applications. The guide is well illustrated with photographs showing examples of good practice and also includes a useful appendix listing relevant regulations and BS EN standards.

Commending the guidance document, James Barrett, head of the HSE’s Manufacturing Sector, said: ‘The quarrying industry has made tremendous strides in recent years in its quest to improve the health and safety of its workforce. This publication is a further example of the industry’s resolve to maintain this positive impetus.’

‘Guarding of Machinery’ is now available electronically by contacting: reception@qpa.org