3020 – 03 – Understanding Machine Motion

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A full knowledge of the way machines move also helps prepare workers for the hazards of a manufacturing workplace. Every type of mechanical motion has the potential to cause harm, but if you’re ready for the way the machine will move, you’re more likely to stay safe and out of it’s way.

OSHA describes four major types of mechanical motion:
• Reciprocation motion is a back and forth or up and down movement that worktables and presses produce. When it comes to reciprocation motion, the most common injury occurs when a worker is caught between the moving part and a stationary object.
• Rotation is a circular motion produced by spindles, flywheels, and cams. These turning components can snack hair, clothing or skin. Screws can be even made dangerous by the rotation.
• In-running is a different type of circular motion. It has two components, and for that reason, can cause pinching injuries. In-running occurs in parts of the saw where wheels, gears, or screws touch the belt, chain, or housing – it can even occur between rollers.
• Transversing is a straight motion produced by a belt or chain. Most injuries that involve transversing occur when the worker is snagged by the movement and pushed into a shear or punch point on the machine.

It’s key to remember that machines can have more than one type of motion at different points in a cutting operation.