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Guarding Requirements for Boring Machines

Boring machines should be destructive to wood but not to the human body. While these machines are built with operator safety in mind, there are occasional injuries that occur due to their use. Boring machine guarding requirements are put in place in order to lessen the likelihood and severity of such accidents.

  1. Machine Guarding Requirements

    • According to the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA), all machines, including boring machines, must conform to general machine guarding standards. The drill section of a boring machine is not the only part of a machine that can be potentially harmful to employees. Guards should be put in place that protect against rotating parts, sparks or flying debris. Any guard used on a machine should be attached to the machine if possible. If this is not possible, the guard should be close by, secured and not a potential hazard itself.

    Chucks and Bits

    • OSHA sets forth certain standards that apply specifically to boring machines. According to OSHA, projecting set screws are not allowed on boring machines and bits should be guarded so that the entirety of bits and chucks are enclosed. Cutting chains and any driving mechanisms on the machine must also be enclosed to allow for safe operation. For floor-based operating treadles, Harvard University states that a U-shaped metal guard fastened to the floor should be used to prevent employees from tripping over the treadle.

    Counterweight Requirements

    • Boring machines often incorporate a counterweight to make proper operation possible. If a counterweight is used, Harvard University states that a bolt should pass through a bar and counterweight for stability. If this is not possible, a safety chain or wire rope should attach bar to counterweight.

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