A mechanical hazard is any physical agent that can cause injury by mechanical action. This includes but is not limited to:
- Sharp objects (e.g., knives, saws, needles)
- Blunt objects (e.g., hammers, bricks, baseball bats)
- Pinch points (e.g., gears, pulleys, conveyor belts)
- Rotating machinery (e.g., lathes, drills, power saws)
- Electrical equipment (e.g., live wires, exposed terminals, faulty appliances)
- High-pressure systems (e.g., boilers, compressed gas cylinders, water jets)
- Gravity (e.g., falls from heights, falling objects)
Mechanical hazards can cause a variety of injuries, including:
- Cuts and lacerations
- Bruises and contusions
- Fractures and dislocations
- Amputations
- Death
It is important to be aware of the mechanical hazards in your workplace and to take steps to protect yourself from them. These steps include:
- Wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, safety glasses, and hard hats
- Using tools and equipment properly
- Being aware of your surroundings
- Following safety procedures
By taking these precautions, you can help to prevent mechanical hazards from causing injuries.