a guide to safety in the wood products ... - WorkSafe Victoria

PLANTPhysical barrier (fixed guard)A fixed guard (with no moving parts) that prevents access to the dangerous part ofthe machinery and provides protection while the guard is in its intended position isneeded. The physical barrier can only be altered or removed by the use of a tool.A hinged door acts as a physicalbarrier preventing access to thedrive wheel of a bandsaw. The dooris bolted shut with non-conventionalhead bolts that can only be removedusing a special tool.Where better vision of the cuttingblade is required, use polycarbonateguards (e.g. panel saw).Presence sensing systemThese guards are usually an unseen barrier created by photoelectric or similardevices capable of electronically detecting intrusion into the hazardous area ofa machine. The presence-sensing system then shuts off power to the plant andmay, depending on the plant, brake the existing motion.These systems are designed with a high level of reliability and are designed to‘fail to safe’ when the system is activated.Automatic routing machine witha light curtain detection systemto prevent access to the machine.10 WORKSAFE VICTORIA / A GUIDE TO SAFETY IN THE WOOD PRODUCTS MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY