Revised Osha Guide Aims To Prevent Amputations

The Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration has issued Safeguarding Equipment and Protecting Employees from Amputations, a

The Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration has issued Safeguarding Equipment and Protecting Employees from Amputations, a revised guide to assist employers in providing a safe workplace. The revised guide is tied directly to OSHA’s National Emphasis Program on Amputations, instituted in October 2006.

Amputations are among the most severe and disabling workplace injuries that result in permanent disability. They are widespread and involve various activities and equipment, notes OSHA Assistant Secretary of Labor Edwin Foulke, Jr. Such injuries result from the use and care of machines such as saws, presses, conveyors and bending, rolling or shaping machines, as well as from powered and nonpowered hand tools, forklifts, doors, and during materials handling activities. Our revised guide offers practical information for the small business employer to identify and manage common amputation hazards associated with the operation and care of machines.

The revised OSHA guide identifies eight mechanical motions and eight actions that present possible amputation hazards, and outlines the steps employers can take to reduce the risk of amputation. Addressing hazard analysis, safeguarding machinery, awareness devices and hazardous energy (lockout/tagout), Safeguarding Equipment and Protecting Employees from Amputations is appropriate for anyone responsible for the operation, servicing, and care of machines or equipment Û employers, employees, safety professionals, and industrial hygienists.

Printed copies of OSHA’s revised guide can be obtained by calling 202/693-1888 or writing U.S. Department of Labor, OSHA Publications, P.O. Box 37535, Washington, D.C. 20013-7535. It is also available at www.osha.gov/pls/publications/pubindex.list.