Safety Engineering, Essay Example

According to OSHA, “Minor tool changes and adjustments, and other minor servicing activities, which take place during normal production operations, are not covered by this standard if they are routine” (OSHA, n.d.). Since the large enclosed abrasive cutoff saw’s wheel needs to be replaced once per shift and is regularly used, we can consider this to be routine. Despite this, care must be taken to ensure the employee’s safety during wheel replacement, and simply turning off the tool may not be adequate for this purpose.

While I agree that this activity is exempted according to OSHA, I believe that the tool could be switched on accidentally. If it is electronic, it should be unplugged and if it is battery operated, the batteries should be removed before replacing the wheel. In addition, the employee should be required to go through proper training procedures that indicate how to properly and safely replace the wheel and be required to sign off on a document that demonstrates he or she is aware of what is needed to remain safe throughout the process.

References

Asfahl, C. R., Hammer, W., Price, D. (2004/2001). Occupational & industrial safety health management and engineering. New York, NY: Prentice-Hall

OSHA. (n.d.). The control of hazardous energy (lockout/tagout). Retrieved from             https://www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owadisp.show_document?p_id=9804&p_table=STANDARDS