What does guarding by distance refer to?

Guarding by distance refers to maintaining a safe distance between the operator and the hazardous part of the machinery, effectively reducing the risk of injury without the need for physical barriers or guards. This concept is crucial in machine safety as it allows for safe operation while minimizing exposure to potential hazards. By keeping operators at a safe distance, it ensures that they are less likely to come into contact with moving parts or other dangerous elements of the machinery.

This method is not primarily about physical barriers, which would provide direct protection from hazards. While noise reduction and electrical safety measures are important aspects of overall machine safety and workplace ergonomics, they do not specifically define guarding by distance. Thus, the correct understanding of guarding by distance emphasizes the strategic placement of the operator away from the risk zone, enhancing safety through spatial arrangement rather than through physical protection mechanisms.