This information sheet is one of four prepared by the Foundries Industry Advisory Committee's Working Group on foundry machinery guarding. It is intended that the four sheets be read together. Essential introductory information is given on sheet 2. Interlocking guards are effective in preventing accidents as closing occurs and should be used on automatic and semi-automatic machines. When movement is manually initiated then a simple but substantial rubber skirt will suffice to prevent access.
Trapping can also occur from lateral movement of the head or rotation of the machine body.
Interlocking perimeter guards will be necessary in this case. Noise from vibration and jolting mechanisms can be considerable. Rotary valves significantly reduce noise from this source and can be retro-fitted. Although silica is present, sand is usually used in a moist form for this process and, provided good housekeeping standards are maintained, inhalation of silica should not be a problem. Care should be taken in devising work methods associated with these machines to avoid unnecessary lifting and awkward postures.