Optimizing the Machine: How to Mitigate Machinery’s Biggest Downfall

Every year, an estimated 800 deaths and 18,000 injuries cripple the workforce solely as a result of workers operating machinery.

Since the Industrial Revolution, the momentum behind increased production and productivity has come from one main source: machines. They have allowed for the advancement of business, but have also provided one of our current era’s biggest dangers. However, there are a few easy ways to combat these costly injuries. The main way to halt machine injuries is to install machine guards that protect workers from dangerous machines. Other solutions: detailed operating instructions on machinery, more in-depth training, and safe practice by superiors to show proper operating techniques. 

 

Machine injuries are one of the top ten reasons for employee injuries every year.

Machines are prevalent in almost every sector and style of business, so they are not likely to disappear anytime soon. These guards and other techniques are crucial steps towards limiting one of the biggest detriments in the workplace. When determining which machines to upgrade, it is important to think about the probability and severity of potential injuries that could stem from the machine. In addition, any machine that even offers a potential for injury should be equipped with guards. Aside from wanting to keep employees safe, employee injuries also are very costly to a company. Taking the proper steps to ensure a safe workplace helps solve both of these issues. 

 

Although more expensive, machine guards and an expanded training program should be a net positive investment in the long run. There is a larger up front expenditure, but more money will be saved in the long run as less employees are injured. Increased savings in medical bills, lawsuits, insurance premiums, and attorney’s fees should more than makeup for the initial payment for guards and training. With more and more companies buying into the idea of safer equipment and advanced training, it is highly likely that the majority of machine injuries dissipate and the workplace becomes much safer as a result.