Safety Articles

Machine Guarding – Minimum sized opening for pinch point hazard

Aug 22, 2017 | Machine Guarding

During a recent client meeting, a question was asked regarding what is minimum sized opening that would represent a pinch point hazard. Keep in mind there are many variables to consider – distance from nip point, etc.

One-fourth of an inch is considered the minimum sized dimension that OSHA considers a potential pinch point hazard. If you look at 1910.217 – Table 0-10 (Mechanical Power Press Standard), the smallest opening they have listed in right column is 1/4 inch. A woman with a size 6 glove could potentially receive a pinch point hazard based on this sized opening.

Jon