Definition of Hazardous Equipment or Machinery
Hazardous equipment or machinery refers to equipment that, due to its complexity, potential for causing injury, or danger during operation, requires specific training, certification, licensing, or safety procedures. The operating of these machines must be done by qualified individuals, and often these machines are subject to inspection and safety protocols regulated by OSHA or other relevant safety bodies. Hazardous equipment is work equipment that poses significant risks to safety and health if not properly managed. This term encompasses various types of equipment, including pressure vessels, lifting devices, electrical systems, and gas handling equipment. Handling with hazardous equipment is covered under various regulations by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). OSHA has specific standards for different types of hazardous equipment:
In United States:
- Pressure Equipment: Covered under OSHA’s standards for pressure vessels and boilers (29 CFR 1910.169).
- Lifting Equipment: Addressed in OSHA’s standards for cranes, derricks, hoists, elevators, and conveyors (29 CFR 1910.179-1910.184).
- Electrical Equipment: Governed by OSHA’s electrical standards (29 CFR 1910 Subpart S).
- Gas Equipment: Regulated under OSHA’s standards for the storage and handling of gases (29 CFR 1910.101-1910.105)
Examples of Hazardous Equipment and Machinery
Cranes (e.g., Tower Cranes, Mobile Cranes)
- OSHA Standard: 1926.1427
- Requires certified operators and regular inspections to ensure safe lifting and operation.
Forklifts (Powered Industrial Trucks)
- OSHA Standard: 1910.178
- Requires operator training and certification. Operators must demonstrate proficiency in safe driving, load handling, and stacking.
Aerial Lifts (e.g., Boom Lifts, Scissor Lifts)
- OSHA Standard: 1910.67
- Operators must be trained in safe work practices, proper use of fall protection, and emergency procedures.
Press Machines
- OSHA Standard: 1910.212
- Requires operators to be trained in machine operation, guarding, and emergency stops.
Power Tools (e.g., Circular Saws, Grinders)
- OSHA Standard: 1910.243
- Operators must be trained in tool safety, including proper handling, maintenance, and use of PPE.
Welding Machines
- OSHA Standard: 1910.254
- Requires certification for operators and safety precautions to prevent burns, eye damage, and inhalation of fumes.
Confined Space Entry Equipment (e.g., Breathing Apparatus, Rescue Equipment)
- OSHA Standard: 1910.146
- Workers must be trained in recognizing confined space hazards and using specific equipment, including gas detectors, ventilators, and personal protective gear.
Elevators and Escalators (Maintenance and Inspection)
- Operators and maintenance personnel must undergo training, and the equipment must be regularly inspected for compliance with safety standards under OSHA 1910.28.
Employee Qualification Requirements
Training and Certification
- OSHA Standard 1910.178 (Powered Industrial Trucks): Operators of powered industrial trucks (PIT), such as forklifts, require formal training and certification. The training ensures the operators understand the safety hazards and know how to operate the equipment safely.
- OSHA Standard 1926.1427 (Cranes and Derricks in Construction): Crane operators must be certified according to specific guidelines. Certification must meet the standards of a nationally recognized accrediting organization. Operators must undergo training and pass tests on proper operation, safety standards, and emergency procedures.
Licensing and Operator Qualification
- Aerial Lifts and Scissor Lifts: Equipment like boom lifts and scissor lifts, used for working at heights, require operators to undergo proper training and certification to ensure safe use. OSHA regulates the use of these lifts under OSHA 29 CFR 1910.67 (Aerial Lifts).
- Heavy Equipment (Excavators, Bulldozers, Backhoes): These machines often require a trained operator who may need specific licenses issued by state or federal regulatory bodies. Licensing requirements can vary by state or municipality.
Specialized Equipment:
- Presses, Saw Machines, and Lathes (OSHA 1910.212): These types of machinery, common in manufacturing, can be hazardous. Employers must ensure that workers have been trained in the proper operation and are aware of the safety measures to prevent injury.
- Confined Space Equipment (OSHA 1910.146): Equipment used in confined space entry requires specialized training due to the associated risks (e.g., tanks, boilers, pipes). Entry requires permits and special training in hazard identification, respiratory protection, and emergency procedures.