Formula: D s = 63 x T s where, D s = Minimum Safety Distance *, 63 = OSHA recommended hand speed constant in inches per second, and T s = stopping time of the press measured at approximately 90° position of crankshaft rotation Moving machine parts create workplace hazards and potential machinery-related injuries, making machine guards vitally important. The minimum safety distance is defined as the minimum distance from the light curtain's plane of light to the closest hazard or danger point where the operator could reach into the hazard. OSHA Compliant Guard-Opening Scale, Measuring Device – An OSHA guard-opening scale is a valuable tool to use during the design, installation, and inspection of guards to make sure they comply with OSHA safety standards. This folding guard-opening scale is based on Table O-10 of OSHA 29 CFR 1910.217 for mechanical power presses. The current OSHA standard for safe distance as a function of opening size is set forth in Table O-10 of OSHA 29 CFR 1910.217 – Mechanical Power Presses.

OSHA’s machine guarding regulations have not changed since 1975 and therefore lack what employers need to know about current machine safety options. To determine the safe mounting distance for a barrier guard, first consider the largest opening in the guarding material. This minimum safety distance is based on the stopping ability of the machine and a hand speed constant. OSHA’s requirements for machine guarding are found in 29 CFR 1910 Subpart O, Machinery and Machine Guarding. Machine safeguarding can help you protect workers from preventable injuries. OSHA regulations have always been considered as a starting point only. MGC OSHA Standards Outline 2014.10.22 OSHA Standards on Machine Guarding The OSHA standards on general guarding of machinery and mechanical power transmission apparatus (.2.219) are very broad and … Machine Guarding eTool | Presses - Safety Distance.