When are you allowed to remove safety guards from machinery?

The removal of safety guards from machinery is only permissible when it is part of an approved maintenance procedure. This is crucial because safety guards are designed to protect operators and workers from potential hazards associated with moving parts, sharp edges, and other dangers inherent in machinery operation. By adhering strictly to established maintenance procedures that include the removal and subsequent replacement of safety guards, you ensure a safe working environment and compliance with safety regulations.

Keeping guards in place during operations mitigates the risk of injury and ensures that the machinery functions safely. Options focusing on removing guards for convenience, during inactivity, or based solely on supervisor direction do not align with safety protocols, which emphasize that safety equipment only be altered within structured guidelines that prioritize operator safety.