Industrial safety is a top priority for businesses operating machinery in Ontario. One key regulation ensuring this safety is Ontario Regulation 851, which mandates strict guidelines for industrial machine safety standards in workplaces. Compliance with these guidelines not only protects workers but also helps prevent costly accidents and legal penalties. In this guide, we’ll explore the essential elements of this regulation and how companies can meet its requirements to maintain safe operations.
Understanding Ontario Regulation 851
Ontario Regulation 851 is part of the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA), specifically designed to safeguard workers in industrial establishments. It sets out specific rules for guarding machinery and other equipment to minimize the risk of injury. Understanding these regulations is crucial for companies operating machinery to ensure a safe work environment. Following these rules is mandatory for all employers, and failure to comply can result in hefty fines or more serious consequences, including workplace injuries.
Key Sections of Ontario Regulation 851
Several sections of Ontario Regulation 851 address the importance of machine guarding to prevent accidents and ensure safety. Below are some of the most critical components:
Section 24: Guarding Moving Parts
This section focuses on protecting workers from exposed moving parts. It mandates that all machinery with potentially dangerous moving components, such as gears, belts, or flywheels, must be equipped with proper guards or devices that prevent access during operation. This significantly reduces the chance of accidental contact, which could lead to severe injury.
Section 25: Pinch Points and Nip Hazards
Pinch points and in-running nip hazards are areas where two machine parts move together, creating a dangerous space for workers. Section 25 requires guarding these areas to prevent workers from being caught in these hazardous zones. Proper machine guarding here is essential to avoid crushing injuries.
Section 26: Shielding Hazardous Materials
In some industrial settings, machines process hazardous materials that could pose risks to workers. Section 26 of the regulation requires these machines to be shielded to prevent exposure to these materials, ensuring the safety of workers who may be in close proximity.
These sections highlight the critical machine guarding requirements outlined by the regulation. They ensure that machines are equipped with the proper safety features to protect workers from common industrial hazards.
Why Compliance with Machine Guarding Regulations Matters
Compliance with machine guarding regulations is not just a legal obligation—it plays a vital role in creating a safe workplace. Here’s why it’s important:
Protecting Workers from Injury
Machines without proper guards expose workers to risks such as amputations, crushing injuries, and other serious accidents. Meeting the machine guarding requirements can prevent these incidents, helping to ensure that employees return home safely after each shift.
Avoiding Legal and Financial Consequences
Non-compliance with Ontario Regulation 851 can lead to significant legal issues for businesses. Companies found in violation can face fines, operational shutdowns, or even criminal charges. Additionally, workplace injuries can result in lawsuits, increased insurance premiums, and lost productivity, which can impact a company’s bottom line.
Extending Equipment Lifespan
Proper machine guarding protects workers and helps keep machinery in good working condition. When properly guarded, machines experience less wear and tear, reducing the need for repairs and maintenance. Over time, this extends the lifespan of the equipment, reducing the total cost of ownership.
How SAFE Engineering, Inc. Supports Compliance
For businesses looking to ensure compliance with industrial machine safety standards, working with a safety-focused organization can simplify the process. SAFE Engineering, Inc. helps businesses in Ontario meet the complex requirements of Ontario Regulation 851 by offering a range of services that ensure machines are properly safeguarded.
SAFE Engineering, Inc. works closely with clients to assess their machinery, identify potential risks, and implement solutions that comply with the regulation. Our services cover the design and integration of custom machine guarding systems, tailored to meet the specific needs of each business. Additionally, SAFE Engineering, Inc. can assist with equipment retrofits, ensuring older machinery meets modern safety standards.
Steps to Achieving Compliance
To ensure full compliance with Ontario Regulation 851, businesses should take the following steps:
Conduct Regular Safety Audits
Regular audits help identify areas of non-compliance and ensure that all machinery is up-to-date with current safety standards. Audits should be part of a continuous process rather than a one-time effort, especially as new machinery is added or production processes change.
Maintain Machine Guards
Machine guards can wear down over time. Regular maintenance is essential to ensure that guards remain functional and compliant with Ontario Regulation 851. Scheduled inspections can catch issues early before they lead to accidents.
By following these steps, businesses can ensure that they remain compliant with machine guarding regulations and foster a safer, more productive workplace.
To Sum Up
Ontario Regulation 851 plays a critical role in protecting workers in industrial establishments by setting strict standards for machine guarding. Compliance is essential not only for meeting legal obligations but also for maintaining a safe, efficient, and financially sustainable workplace. Businesses that prioritize industrial machine safety standards help prevent workplace accidents, protect their employees, and safeguard their operations.
To navigate the complexities of Ontario’s machine guarding regulations, SAFE Engineering, Inc. offers services that ensure compliance and workplace safety. Companies looking to enhance their machine guarding practices can benefit from our comprehensive safety solutions, ensuring that machines are not only compliant but also well-maintained and safe for operation.
Contact SAFE Engineering, Inc. today to learn more about improving industrial safety through compliant machine-guarding solutions.